Richard St. John

Richard “Dick” Edwin St. John, age 78, of Charlotte, passed away peacefully, surrounded by loved ones, at his home on Monday, October 17, 2022. He was born July 10, 1944, in Edmore, Michigan, the son of Edwin and Cecelia (Bruner) St. John. Richard graduated from Charlotte High School with the class of 1962. He spent his collegiate years at Michigan Tech University where he discovered his love for the outdoors. He graduated with a bachelor’s degree two weeks before marrying his high school sweetheart. On June 28, 1969, Richard married Joy Lynn Vrogindewey at Lawrence Avenue United Methodist Church, spending 50 wonderful years together. Richard’s career as an engineer was extensive and he developed several life-long friendships – always looking forward to traveling to Canada with those friends to enjoy time fishing, camping and bonding. Richard was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He loved spending time together with those he loved most, especially family get-togethers and dinners. Although his work hours were long, he made it a priority to support his children and grandchildren in their multitude of events and activities. In his free time, he spent many enjoyable hours on home improvement projects, as well as time soaking up the great outdoors – bike riding, skiing, snowshoeing and camping. Both Richard and Joy enjoyed vacationing together in Hilton Head, South Carolina, and spending time together as a family at their lake house in Hastings.
Richard is survived by his children: Lisa (James) Hoyt of Hastings, Steven (Wendy) St. John of Zionsville, Indiana, Sara (Brad) Thornell of Charlotte, Daniel St. John of Portage, Brian (Lauren) St. John of Charlotte, Stephanie (Matthew) Koenigsknecht of Charlotte; 15 grandchildren; siblings: Judy (Dick) Saurer of Salt Lake City, Utah, Tom (Marlene) St. John of Park Hills, Missouri, Deb (Ken) Mohre of Rochester; and numerous nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Joy; and brother-in-law, Stephen Alflen.
In keeping with Richard’s wishes, cremation has taken place and a private graveside service will be held.
Those desiring may make contributions in Richard’s memory to the American Cancer Society.
To view Richard’s obituary online or to leave a condolence for the family please visit www.burkhead-green-kilgo.com.
The family is being served by the Burkhead-Green-Kilgo Funeral Home.