Richard John DeMerse

Richard was born on January 3, 1940 in Sault Ste. Marie, MI, to Irwin and Rhoda DeMerse. He graduated from John D. Pierce High School in Marquette.

Richard married the love of his life, Edith Nancarrow, on July 16, 1960, in Marquette, and was blessed to be her husband for 65 years.

Richard worked at Bunny Bread in Marquette. While in high school, he felt a call to be a public servant and decided to pursue a career in law enforcement. Richard was a patrolman for the City of Marquette Police, a correction’s officer for the Marquette Branch Prison, and a trooper for the Michigan State Police. He was proud to be a trooper, and after a long and rewarding career with the Michigan State Police, Richard retired after 25 years in 1990.

Richard was a member of First United Methodist Church in Marquette and was active with the Elks in Midland, MI and the Marquette Masonic Lodge. Bowling with the State Trooper League and friends, and playing golf were his hobbies, but he was passionate about spending time with his family, including grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Richard looked forward to the winter months in Florida with his community of friends which he considered his second home, and the beautiful and peaceful place he called “Camp” on Lake Superior. Everyone that knew Richard was touched by his sense of humor, kindness and generosity.

Richard is survived by his wife, Edith; his son, Stuart (Shannon); grandchildren, Joel DeMerse (Allis), Jain Gicker (Keith), Kassie DeMerse, Kira DeMerse and Kaidi DeMerse; great-grandchildren, Alexander Gicker, Jameson Patnode and Rosemary DeMerse; siblings, Irwin DeMerse (Ethel) and Margaret DeMerse (Joe).

Richard John DeMerse was preceded in death by his son, Richard “Rich” John DeMerse (Terri); his parents, Irwin and Rhoda DeMerse; and his brother, Dennis DeMerse (Michelle).

Graveside services for Richard will be held on Wednesday, June 10, 2026 at 1p.m. at Park Cemetery with Pastor Christopher Hintz officiating.

Fassbender Swanson Hansen Funeral and Cremation Services is assisting Richard’s family where memories and condolences may be shared at fassbenderswansonhansen.com