Richard Earl Dantzer

Richard Earl Dantzer, of West Branch, Michigan, passed away peacefully at home in West Branch on October 6, 2026, with his loving wife by his side. He was born on December 10, 1940, in Cumming Township in Rose City, Michigan to Adrian Sr. and Mary (Moore) Dantzer

Richard attended St. Joseph Catholic School. In 1958, he joined the U.S. Air Force and served his country until his honorable discharge in 1961. He later moved back to West Branch in 1983. After returning home, he worked for his brother Adrian at the Amoco Station. He retired in 2000.

Richard was a man who enjoyed working with his hands and took pride in his skills in carpentry and engines. He loved snowmobiling and dirt track racing, and he also enjoyed fishing and camping. Some of his happiest times were spent at family gatherings, enjoying a cold beer and being surrounded by the people he loved most. He also enjoyed traveling around the country to visit his children and grandchildren. To many of his grandkids, he was lovingly known as “GPA,” a name that reflected the special place he held in their hearts.

Above all, Richard treasured his family. He is survived by his wife, Debra Dantzer of West Branch along with his first wife Bonnie Bonhard.  He is also survived by his children, Andrew and Lisa Dantzer, Deborah and Darrell Zibble, and Barry Dantzer; and by his step-sons, RJ DeLand and Lori Backensto, and Jason and Erin DeLand. He is further survived by his sisters, Alice Klemmer and Helen Bryer. His family will remember him with love for his steady presence, his enjoyment of time together, and the many memories made over the years.

He was preceded in death by his father and mother, Adrian and Mary Dantzer; by his brothers, Adrian Dantzer Jr., Carl Dantzer, and Jack Dantzer; and by his sister, Mildred Zettel.

Richard’s life was marked by devotion to family, enjoyment of simple pleasures, and pride in a life well lived. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew him.

A memorial gathering will be held at a later date. 

Memorial contributions can be made to the family of Richard E. Dantzer.