Richard E. Van Fossen

Richard Eugene Van Fossen Sr., 91, of Potterville, passed away Monday, May 7, 2018 at Sparrow Hospital in Lansing. He was born March 12, 1927, in Flint, the son of Donald and Verl Van Fossen. As a boy Richard attended Flushing Schools. He then went on to honorably serve his country in the US Navy in World War II in the Pacific Theater. Upon his return from the war he married the love of his life, Jennie E. Petherbridge on November 25, 1944. Richard was a pillar in the Potterville community. He served as the town constable in the 1950s. Richard was also the Mayor of Potterville, longtime member and president of the Potterville School Board, and City Council. He was an honorary Kentucky Colonel. Richard was a licensed commercial pilot, who loved to fly every opportunity he had. He owned many planes throughout the years and even built one himself. Richard was a proud member of the Operating Engineers Union for over 50 years. In his early years Richard enjoyed racing stock cars and riding motorcycles. He owned and operated Van Fossen Excavating and Van Fossen Trucking for many years. He loved to read and was an ardent supporter of the Benton Township Library. Richard was a proud Shriner. He saw to it that every child that needed medical care had a ride to their appointments.

Richard is survived by his sons, Richard (Theresa) Van Fossen II, Michael Van Fossen; seven grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; numerous nieces, nephews, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Evelyn in 2014; daughter, Diane Jean in 1989; and granddaughter, Kelly Jean Van Fossen.

Funeral services were held on Friday, May 11, 2018, at 10 a.m. at Burkhead-Green-Kilgo Funeral Home in Charlotte. Interment took place at the Benton Township Cemetery.

Those desiring may make contributions in Richard’s memory to the Shriners Hospitals for Children 2900 N. Rocky Point Drive, Tampa, FL 33607.

To view Richard’s obituary online or to leave a condolence for the family, please visit burkhead-greenfuneralhome.com.