Richard Frederick Burghdoff, age 83, of Battle Creek, passed away on October 4, 2020 at Bronson Battle Creek Hospital. Richard was born on October 26, 1936 in Hastings, MI to Gerald and Mabel Pierce Burghdoff. Richard served his country in the United States Army. He married Janet M. Vanderlip on August 17, 1957 and they were happily married for 63 years. He was a Journeyman Millwright, retiring from Michigan Paper Board after forty-two years of service. He was a hard-working man, who took care of his family and made sure they had everything they needed. He was an amazing wood worker and has left many beautiful works behind for family and friends. He was a "Jack of All Trades", who was able to fix just about anything he wanted. He loved and served the Lord and was active in his church. He had many life-long, dear friends and was admired by many who knew him. Richard never felt as though he met a stranger.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Gerald and Mabel Burghdoff; his sister, Constance Burghdoff, and two brothers, Jack Burghdoff and Ronald Burghdoff.
Richard is survived by his loving wife, Janet M. (Vanderlip) Burghdoff; children, Daniel (Diane) Burghdoff, Natalie (James) McNamee, Marjorie (John Busha) Burghdoff, and Amber (Larry) Dingee; nine grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; sister, Geraldine Storm, and brother, David (Rose) Burghdoff; and uncle, Bob (Martha) Burghdoff.
Friends may visit with the family from 4-7 p.m. on Thursday, October 8, 2020 at the Kempf Family Funeral and Cremation Services, 2838 Capital Ave SW, Battle Creek, MI 49015. A private graveside service will be held at Fort Custer National Cemetery, with Pastor Jeffery Davis officiating. Memorials may be directed to Johns Hopkins Hospital for Covid-19 Research. Please visit
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