Richie Papes
Richard “Richie” George Papes, 68, of Free Soil, passed away peacefully on Friday, November 28, 2025, surrounded by the family he cherished above all else.
Born on July 28, 1957, in Manistee to James and Marie (Fend) Papes, Richie was raised on the family farm where he learned early that life’s deepest lessons come from hard work, possessing a humble heart and the importance of laughter. He graduated from Free Soil High School in 1975 and earned his associate of arts degree from West Shore Community College in 1977, then promptly returned to the family farm that had shaped him.
Richie was a devout Catholic whose faith was the foundation of everything—his generosity through service, such as ushering and greeting the parishioners at St. John Cantius Catholic Church in Free Soil and volunteering at various church functions over the years. Richie never asked for anything for himself but gave endlessly of his time, his home, and most of all, his heart. His infectious and contagious laughter was felt and loved by many, as he always made one feel valued, loved and seen. Richie was a father figure to many.
Since 1949, the Papes family farm has brought much happiness through integrity and morals, and Richie has carried that legacy forward with humility, hard work and pride. There was no place Richie would rather be than on his tractor at dawn, tilling the earth, baling hay or bringing in the season’s harvest, in which he was deeply rooted.
Even after stepping back from his own operation, Richie couldn’t stay away from the fields. He found deep joy working on the Stakenas family farm alongside his good friends, where their fellowship was appreciated. Richie was always willing to answer the call for fellow farmers and neighbors in need.
“The Farm” was more than home to Richie—it was a gathering place. The doors of “The Farm” were always open, welcoming neighbors, family and friends for fellowship. “The Farm” was the staple of tradition for Richie and the Papes family; from Christmas Eve, which brought Santa Claus visits for the little ones, to milestone celebrations that marked the passage of time. His love of family will be felt throughout generations to come.
Sunday nights at the Papes Farm were a time-tested tradition enjoyed by family and friends. “Popcorn Night” brought brothers, neighbors, and friends together around the kitchen table for laughter, tall tales, and stories that may have stretched the truth just a bit. But it was Richie who kept everyone honest with that contagious laugh of his and a well-timed tease that let you know you were loved but held accountable.
Every November, deer camp transformed the property into the epicenter of family tradition and an open door for surrounding friends and neighbors. Hunting season brought those pre-dawn hours of hot dogs and Wonder Bread on the table, coffee brewing, and pre-hunting stories of anticipation filled the kitchen and Richie’s heart.
Richie’s love of sports and his competitive spirit started as a little league catcher, all the way to state championship runner-up in high school, transitioning into many years as a highly competitive, successful fastpitch softball catcher. In 2024, Richie was inducted into the Mason County Sports Hall of Fame as a proud member of the 1974 Free Soil state runner-up baseball team—a recognition that brought him great joy, though he’d never have sought it out himself. Richie’s love of sports carried over to passionately listening to his beloved Tigers, Lions, and the Wolverines.
Richie will be deeply missed by his siblings: Marie Boguszewski, Eugene Papes (Val), Tony Papes (Linda), Jim Papes (Laura), David Papes (Lynda), and Donna Quinlan (Phil), along with the many nieces and nephews he adored and who adored him right back.
He was preceded in death by his parents, James and Marie Papes, and his sister Evelyn Malcomson (Mike).
The family would like to extend a heartfelt gratitude to Corewell Health of Ludington Emergency Room and a special appreciation to the Critical Care and Hospice Staff of Corewell Health Butterworth Hospital of Grand Rapids.
A visitation will be held on Thursday, Dec. 4, 2025, from 5 to 7 p.m. at Grace Funeral Home, with the Rosary beginning at 7 p.m.
A Mass from the Order of Christian Funerals will be celebrated on Friday, Dec. 5, 2025, at 11 a.m. at St. John Cantius Catholic Church in Free Soil, with Rev. Jacob M. Zemaitis presiding. Visitation will begin at 10 a.m. at the church.
Memorial contributions may be made to St. John Cantius Catholic Church.
Arrangements were entrusted to Grace Funeral Home and Cremation Services, www.GraceCremations.
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