Obituary of Richard G. Townsend

ALBION:  Richard “Dick” Townsend, 68, died at his home September 8, 2018 following a long illness.  He was born November 1, 1949, a son of the late Gordon and Doris (Batt) Townsend.  Dick was a graduate of Albion High School, class of 1967.  Dick was a Lance Corporal in the United States Marine Corp., serving in Vietnam from February 15, 1968 to March 1, 1969.  He was awarded the Purple Heart Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal w/device and the Rifle Marksman Qualification Badge. 

He operated a Ambulance Service in Albion for many years and was instrumental in helping to establish C.O.V.A.  Dick was also an active member of the Carlton Fire Company and the Albion Fire Department.  He volunteered for the American Red Cross and went to help in N.Y.C on September 11, 2001 after the attack on the World Trade Center and also helped after Hurricane Katrina in New Orleans LA. 

He was predeceased by his sister, Sandra Bowers.  He is survived by his wife, Pat; children, Rick (Jessica) Townsend. Erika (Thomas) Payne, Shawn (Jen) Townsend and Kyle Townsend (Nick Rastegar); step-son Scott (Jenel Gammreio) Boccaccio: grandchildren, Maddox, Rylan, Lincoln Townsend, Tanner, Brynley and Owen Payne; brother-in-law, Bruce Bowers and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

The family will receive friends at the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Homes, Inc.  21 W. Avenue, Albion on Thursday September 20, from 11:00-1:00.  Dick’s Memorial Service will be held at the Funeral Home Thursday at 1:00 followed by Military Honors.  Memorials may be made to the charity of your choice.