Richard “Dick” Redifer, a former coach and athletic director, tragically passed away on Saturday.
Born in the territory of Hawaii in 1933, Dick’s early life was marked by travel with his parents, who were career military.Â
After graduating from Kingston High School, where he was part of a six-boy class that went on to win the Class D high school state basketball championship, Dick attended Central Michigan University.
Remarkably, he earned a spot on both the college football and wrestling teams, despite never having played either sport before.
Dick served in the United States Navy, joining in the middle of his college enrollment.
He completed flight school in Pensacola, Florida, where he earned his wings and mastered carrier landings.
Though he couldn’t continue flying as a pilot, he never lost his love of aviation.
He vicariously nurtured this passion by regularly attending airshows and as an active member of the Korean War Veterans.
After graduating, Dick dedicated 37 years to the Hemlock School District. He was a beloved figure who held numerous roles, including principal, teacher, athletic director, bus driver, coach, and instructor for driver’s training.
Richard “Dick” Redifer Passed Away, Leaving Everyone Devastated
As per the various sources, former athletic director and coach Richard “Dick” Redifer passed away on Saturday, September 27, 2025, at the age of 92.
However, the cause of death has not been revealed yet.
Closed ones and relatives have poured their heartfelt condolences and sent prayers to Richard’s family to stay strong in this heartbreaking moment.
According to Richard’s family, a celebration of life will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Wednesday, October 1, 2025, at The Snow Funeral Home, 3775 N. Center Rd.
The United States Navy and American Legion Post #439 will render Military Honors. Â
Friends are invited to visit at the funeral home, where the family will be present on Wednesday from 12:00 noon until the time of the service.
Private inurnment will take place in Great Lakes National Cemetery. Instead of flowers, consider donating to the Alzheimer’s Association.
Rest in Peace, Richard “Dick” Redifer.
Richard “Dick” Redifer Is Survived By His Wife, Patricia, And Children
An athletic director, Richard “Dick” Redifer, was married to Patricia (Schnepf) Redifer. Their wedding date has not been revealed yet.
They were blessed with three children: Elizabeth, Daniel, and Timothy Redifer.
In addition, Richard had three step-children: Mark Birnbaum, Steve Birnbaum, and Beth Ann (Birnbaum) Blank.
Sadly, his children, Matt Redifer and Connie (Birnbaum) Woodward, passed away.
He also had 12 grandchildren and several great-grandchildren. They are mourning the tragic loss of their father, Richard “Dick” Redifer.
In Case You Didn’t Know
- An amateur archaeologist, Dick enjoyed hunting and had a deep respect for the history of the American Indians in Michigan.
- His mother taught him to hunt with his father overseas during World War II, and he received his first hunting license in 1944.
- Dick continued his passion for hunting for over six decades, taking his last buck in November 2024
