OBITUARY: Richard D. Rubley

Richard D. Rubley died of a broken heart Wednesday, February 4, 2026 at the Meadows of Coldwater, with family by his side.

Richard is being cared for by Lighthouse Funeral & Cremation in Union City.

There will be no services per Richard’s request. A celebration for the lovely late couple will take place in the summer, for which a date has not been set.

Richard was born the youngest of 8 April 4, 1939 in Bronson Township to Francis and Willow (Harley) Rubley. He graduated from Bronson High School in 1957, where he met the love of his life, Gloria “Daisy” Herman.

He attended college at Ferris Institute (before it was Ferris State University). Richard and his high school sweetheart, Daisy, spent 66 wild years together. She preceded him in death 8 months ago.

A printer by trade, Richard worked in Miami, Denver and Coldwater. He retired from Graphics 3, and once again from Kasco Brass (at age 80). He was a proud member of the Early Bird Exchange Club during his working years.

Richard loved music and began playing piano by ear at age 8. He played numerous events, nursing homes/assisted living facilities, and even had a band for a short time. A giant kid at heart, Richard loved joke telling and reciting ditties, of which he knew many by heart.

He enjoyed teaching piano, and would guide anyone willing to give him the time. He spent his life fishing and had a passion for fly tying. Richard enjoyed poker parties, bowling league, and dining at The Coldwater Garden. He had many a laugh with his special friends he called the “Groupies” (you know who you are).

Spending time with his family and friends gave Richard, a true social butterfly, great joy.

Left to remember all the good times are his children, Eric (Debbie) Rubley of Georgetown, TX, Russell (Cindy) Rubley of Virginia Beach, VA, and Kelly Tackett of Coldwater, MI; grandchildren, Jennifer, Kyle, Jimmy (Beverly), Joshua Rubley and Adelle Neitzert; loving sisters-in-law, Sonja Mitchell of Battle Creek and Bobby Kerr of Antioch, IL; and many nieces and nephews, whom made extra time for their Uncle Richard to the very end.

In addition to his wife, Richard was preceded in death by his parents and his siblings, Violet “Hope” Gerald, Elton, Naoma, Gilbert, Doran “Stub,” and Charlotte.

Many thanks to the staff of Thurston Woods, the Meadows of Coldwater, and Oaklawn Hospice for the great care of Richard and Daisy.

Please visit www.lighthousefuneral.com to share memories, pictures and videos with the family.