Richard D. Sadler

January 21, 1949 – November 8, 2019

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, July 10, 2021 at 4:00 PM at New Day Community Church, 632 Locust St, Kalamazoo, MI 49007.

Obituary

Richard David Sadler passed away on November 8, 2019. He had a difficult life due to his disabilities. However, he met his challenges and became an example to many. He was a vocal advocate for the rights of those with disabilities as a board member of McKercher Rehabilitation Center. He expressed indignation at the treatment of people with disabilities. Richard had physical challenges as well yet lived to the age of 70. Richard was born on January 21, 1949, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, to David and Margery (Larkworthy) Sadler. He grew up in Kalamazoo, Michigan, and attended WMU’s Campus School, West Main Elementary, Hillside Junior High, and Tower Heights School at the Kalamazoo State Hospital, where he got his G.E.D. He later attended McKercher for vocational services. After living in the State Hospital and group homes, he appreciated the independence of having his own apartment. Richard enjoyed family vacations and group outings, and especially liked going to baseball games, fairs, and Shipshewana. He participated in activities with Pathways Clubhouse, BridgeWays, and Keystone Inc. He was in a bowling league and won several trophies. Richard was very interested in politics and liked to read and go to the library. He had a quirky sense of humor and a great laugh which everyone enjoyed. Richard was preceded in death by his mother, Margery, and his father, David. He is survived by his brother, Bob and sisters, Judy and Debbie; nieces and nephews, and other family members.

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Robert Schellenberg
6 years ago

I am sorry to hear about the loss of your brother. He put up a hard fight and your family gave him support and encouragement. I knew a Kalamazoo College student who once worked with him in the seventies, who said “Richard is more intelligent than anybody in this room.” Bob Schellenberg, Kalamazoo

Hugh Kallen
6 years ago

I really appreciated Richard and the time we had together when I lived in Kalamazoo. He was funny and fun. I lost track of him 10 years ago when we moved from Kalamazoo, and my efforts to keep in touch were thwarted by the hyper-privacy surrounding the mental health services community. But I will always remember the dinners we had out, and our discussions about the Hardy Boys. Richard was one of a kind, and it was a pleasure knowing him.

Linda Vanderberg
6 years ago

I was a good friend of Richard’s and will miss him.

Russell Simmons
6 years ago

Sorry for your loss dear Debbie, Bob, and Judy. I did not have the pleasure of knowing your brother. – Russell and Susan Simmons

Steve Rathbun
6 years ago

Richie and I grew up together. Met him at the state Hosp.,and founded a life long friendship. I’m sorry I couldn’t have seen you once more,Richie. You were a great friend,I’ll miss your smile,your wit. I will see you on the other side. I love you,my friend. Steve