Richard Floyd (Dick) Neff, of Gregory, MI, age 78, passed away on Monday, October 19, 2020 with his family by his side. Richard was born on September 23, 1942 in Ann Arbor, MI, the son of Floyd and Louise (Henning) Neff. He graduated from Ann Arbor Pioneer in 1960, and married the love of his life, Sandra Kay Gieske on July 3, 1962, sharing a wonderful life of 58 years together.
At the age of 16, he started working at Mallek’s Service Station in Ann Arbor, MI, becoming a well-known mechanic for 46 years until retiring in 2003, mentoring many young employees along the way. He was an avid outdoorsman who loved hunting, fishing, camping, bluegrass festivals, pontoon boating on North Lake, and spending time with family. His friendliness toward people was infectious and the infamous drive-by “wave” on North Lake Road will be remembered by many. We will miss the legendary fisherman, and forever cherish the talents that have been passed down in his lineage for generations to come.
He is survived by his wife, Sandra, and three children: Teri (Tom) Bareis, Mark (Kristin) Neff, Susie (Joey) Long. He is also survived by five grandchildren and one great-grandchild, all whom he loved dearly: Emma (Gabe) Marshall, Addison, Hunter, and Jessica Neff, Hayden Long, and great-grandchild, Fern Louise Marshall. In addition, Dick is survived by his siblings, Ron (Sandy) Neff of Dexter, and Bob Neff of Chelsea.
A Gathering of Friends and Family will be held on Friday, October, 23, 2020, 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. and 5:00 to 7:00 p.m., at Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea, MI. Funeral Directors are following current CDC recommendations for COVID-19 which allow for 10 people in the chapel at one time and a total of 40 in the building; those attending will be instructed accordingly, and masks must be worn. Expressions of sympathy in Richard’s name may be given to the St. Louis Center, Chelsea. Arrangements by Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea.
