Obituary of Richard E. Neubauer

Richard Edward Neubauer, 85, of Benton Harbor, passed away at Caretel Inns of Lakeland on Friday, October 23, 2020, a mere 27 days after his wife, Elvern. Richard was born on February 14, 1935, in Benton Harbor to the late Edward and Helen (Weber) Neubauer. After graduating from Benton Harbor High School, Richard enlisted in the United States Army, and had training in Colorado Springs, Colorado. It was there that he met and fell in love with Elvern Haag. On August 5, 1956, Elvern and Richard said “I do.” Their time together in Colorado Springs was short, as Richard got stationed in Germany, and Elvern gladly joined him. They started their family in Germany with the birth of their eldest, Kaye. After moving to Michigan, the family continued to grow with the addition of Mark, Cathy, and Thomas. Richard was a tool and die maker for many years, and took pride in his work. He strived to better himself in all aspects of life, as illustrated by his many diplomas and certificates. In the Army, he was recognized for his ability to work on helicopters, as well as his efforts to keep the 8th Infantry Division safe and clean. In his work, he completed specialized training in machine tool set-up, and proved his hard-working attitude by completing his apprenticeship while still in high school. Richard enjoyed his time outdoors, whether that was bicycling, hunting, or fishing. But first and foremost, he was a family man who loved being surrounded by his children and grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife of 64 years, Elvern; his parents; his son, Thomas Neubauer; his grandson, Jason Franklin; his son-in-law, Harold Krassner; and siblings, Betty, Doris, Helen, and Donald. Richard will be missed by his children, Kaye Krassner of Colorado Springs, Colorado, Mark (Kelly) Neubauer of Lansing, Michigan; and Cathy Franklin of Cibolo, Texas; daughter-in-law, Colleen Neubauer of New Buffalo, Michigan; grandchildren, Aimee Neubauer, Max Neubauer, Jesse Neubauer, Amanda Franklin, Nicholas Franklin, Amber Franklin, and Jackson Neubauer; great-grandchildren, Emilia First and Zaelyn Franklin; as well as a host of nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends. Richard will be laid to rest with Elvern at Crystal Springs Cemetery in Benton Harbor at a later time. Arrangements entrusted to Brown Funeral Home, Niles.