Richard A. Honig, Sr. Freeland, Michigan
This is the story of Richard Andrew Honig Sr.
Dick was an amazing man that was loved dearly, is missed greatly and will always be cherished. Our "Papa", as he was called by his grandchildren was a one of a kind papa, husband, dad, son, brother, uncle, and friend.
Dick's story starts on November 10, 1943, the oldest child to Virginia (Hurst) and Ralph Honig. He was born in Saginaw, MI and remained there his entire life. He was a graduate of St. Peter and Paul in 1960. During his childhood he enjoyed going hunting and fishing with his dad and brothers and being the protective older brother to his sisters. Eventually, seeing a girl who caught his eye, he decided to follow her until she agreed to go on a date, which led to him occasionally hitchhiking across Saginaw County to see her. That was the beginning of a 53 year marriage to Barbara Kay (Sawicki) Honig and a testament to their true love. In those 53 years they formed a foundation that was unbreakable.
During that time Dick began working for Eaton Corporation, in which he retired after 37 years in 2002. At one point he served as Vice President of Local 433 and was the Labor Union Liaison for United Way. He always worked hard to encourage others to "Buy American"! He was also a very proud member of UOAA Saginaw Tri-County Chapter.
Additionally, he thoroughly enjoyed the camaraderie that came with deer hunting. He also enjoyed fly fishing, and camping throughout northern Michigan. Dick would take his family on trips north in a small pop-up camper as often as he could, creating everlasting memories. The family cabin on Otsego Lake became a second home to he and Barb. Countless days were spent relaxing and enjoying the true beauty that surrounded him. He is a past President of the Arbutus Beach Association.
Dick's second love was sports. That love and his wisdom together created a sports memorabilia business, "Just Looking" that he was very proud of as he wasn't in it to make money but to talk sports and get to know others that shared the same passion. He spent as much time as needed answering questions for those "just looking". He enjoyed many weekends at card shows with Barb and other family members.
Anyone that was blessed to be touched by Dick in their lives are fully aware of his unselfish desire to help others. If there was ever a situation he could make better in any way, he did. From doing physical work, listening, and giving the very best sound advice anyone could ask for, if he thought you needed anything at all, he was there to help.
He was very blessed to have countless days that were spent with wife, children, and grandchildren that were filled with love and laughter. He was beyond proud of all of their accomplishments and thoroughly enjoyed watching them grow up. He supported their countless activities and enjoyed listening to their stories as their laughter brought him pure joy and you could tell by the smile on his face. His smile could light up a room.
Loved ones that cleared the path for Dick are his parents, Ralph and Virginia. Loved ones that will miss him dearly until they meet Dick again are his wife Barbara Kay (Sawicki) Honig of 53 years who was forever faithful by his side, his son and daughter-in-law, Richard (Susan) Honig, daughter Julia Brown, daughter and son-in-law Cynthia (Joe) Frawley, and daughter, Amanda (Shawn) Abbe, grandchildren, Christopher (Lindsey), Jessica, Rachel (Ryan), Tyler, Rebecca, Eric, Hannah, Hope and Faith, siblings, Kathy, Randy, Robin, and Kristyn, stepfather, David Greason, and Laura Wcisel, whom they embraced as their own daughter. Additionally, the friends he enjoyed sharing his time with, Beth and Paul, Dave and Cheryl, and Bob and Nancy Sawyer.
Funeral Liturgy will take place at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, November 21, 2016 at Holy Spirit Catholic Church, 1035 N. River Road. Fr. Peter J. Gaspeny will officiate. Friends may visit with the family on Sunday, November 20, 2016 from 2:00 to 8:00 p.m. at W. L. Case and Company, 201 N. Miller Road, prayer service will take place at 7:00 p.m. Friends may also visit on Monday at the church from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service. Those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider St. Jude Children's Research Hospital or charity of donor's choice.
Funeral Home:
W. L. Case and Company
201 North Miller Road
Saginaw, MI
United States 48609