Richard Lee Bookwalter

 Richard Lee Bookwalter, age 86, of Niles, Michigan, passed away on August 24, 2026. He was born on December 6, 1939 in Twelve Mile, Indiana, as the only child to Varrick and Geneva Bookwalter. He graduated from Purdue University and went on to work for General Finance as a branch manager for 25 years and as a relator for 25 years. Richard spent 34 years proudly Serving the Board of Review for Niles Charter Township. 

 Richard loved the game of pickleball and helped build the sport locally in Niles. He and his wife, Louise, were a formidable doubles team for over 14 years. He helped coach Brandywine baseball for over thirteen years and was an assistant coach for Brandywine’s 1987 baseball state championship team. Richard was a member of the New Journey United Methodist Church. He and Louise spent a lot of time traveling to his four grandchildren’s activities. He will be remembered for his kindness, his positive attitude, his faith, and for never meeting a stranger he did not like.

 Richard is survived by his wife Louise, married for over 46 years; his daughter, Lisa Horst of Muncie, Indiana married to Eric and their children Kyla and Tara; his son, Todd Bookwalter of Niles, Michigan married to Gwen and their children Payton and Catherine; his step children, Ron, Cindy, and Lisa; three step grandchildren; and six step great grandchildren.

 A funeral service will be held on Friday, August 28, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. at Halbritter Wickens, located at 615 E Main St, Niles, Michigan. Family will receive friends at 10:00 a.m. He will be laid to rest in Silverbrook Cemetery, Niles.

  In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial donations be made to New Journey United Methodist Church 302 Cedar Street, Niles.