Obituary: Richard Chavalia, 81, of Ludington.

Richard Chavalia

Obituary: Richard Chavalia, 81, of Ludington.

Richard A. Chavalia, 81, of Ludington, passed away at home with his kids and grandkids at his side on Thursday, September 24, 2020.

Richard was born on August 14, 1939 in Ludington, the son of Julius and Goldie (Mavis) Chavalia.  He married Barbara “Bobbie” Genson on October 15, 1960 in Ludington, where they lived and raised their three children; Paul, Connie, and Mike.

For many years, Rich worked and serviced the petroleum industry.  When he finally slowed down, he worked and retired from Haworth Corp. as a team leader in 1998.  Rich had been a member of the Fin & Feather Club of Ludington.

In his younger years, he enjoyed working on motorcycles and cars, and as his kids grew up, he taught them the basics and importance of vehicle maintenance.  Slowly over the years, instead of working on vehicles, he spent his time shopping the Auto Trader or riding in and out of car lots “kicking tires”, making quick trips to the casino, and taking extended coffee breaks at a few of his favorite places.

Rich is survived by his daughter, Connie (Dan) Quinn; son, Michael Chavalia; daughter-in-law, Mary Chavalia; grandchildren, Jason (Jessica) Quinn, Ryan (Alison) Quinn, Jordan Chavalia, Tyler (Madison) Chavalia, Brayden Chavalia, and Christopher Chavalia; nine great-grandchildren; brother, Eldred “Shorty” Chavalia; brother-in-law, Larry (Debbie) Genson; and several nieces and nephews.

Rich was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Bobbie; son, Paul; sisters, Marilyn and Emma; great grandson, Bowen; and many other loved ones.  

As he requested, there will be no services held.  

Please share your photos and fond memories of Rich at www.OakGroveLudington.com. 

Arrangements were entrusted to Oak Grove Funeral Home of Ludington.