Richard A. Cichon

Richard A. Cichon, a dedicated metallurgist in the plating industry, has peacefully passed away at his home in Plymouth, Michigan on March 15, 2024.  Born in Detroit, Michigan, Richard's journey of life began on March 31,1937.
  
Richard always cherished precious time at the family’s beloved cottage on Lake 13 in Farwell, Michigan during the summer. Pontoon boat rides, bonfires, fishing, fiddling with “projects” in the garage or enjoying the peaceful view of the lake from the deck can all be found in his archives of irreplaceable moments. During the colder months, he always looked forward to taking the wheel as he and Martha would drive down to their quiet condo retreat in Naples, Florida. Nobody can forget his passion for music-especially the accordion. He started a traditional and very energetic band (featuring an accordion of course!) called the “Harbor Lights” who were responsible for creating so many fun and happy memories at numerous Polish weddings and other events. It was amazing to observe that even though his memory in recent years failed him, he could still regale you with his knowledge of notes, finger placement, and his knowledge of his favorite instrument and the music he loved to play. As the polka king Frank Yankovic once said: “Polkas make you forget your troubles…it’s the happiest music this side of heaven”.
  
Richard was a beloved husband to Martha for 63 wonderful years. Together they worked hard and built a life filled with love and shared countless memories. Perpetual cheerfulness, energy and enthusiasm, as well as a spontaneous sense of humor were Richard’s hallmarks. He worked into his 70s because he enjoyed what he did. As a child struck with polio at a time in history when most would say “you cannot”, Richard proved by the fullness of his life that “you can”. His legacy lives on through his children: Scott (Michelle) Cichon and Michelle (Jeff) Rumley; grandchildren: Valentyna Cichon, Alexa (Amol) Carvalho, and Colette Cichon; and great-grandchild, Maksim.
  
He is preceded in death by his parents, John and Mary (nee Fondakowski) Cichon. Richard will be deeply missed by his sister, Camille Wysocki, along with numerous relatives and friends whose lives he touched with his kindness and wisdom.
  
Richard A. Cichon will be remembered not only for his professional accomplishments but also for the love and warmth he shared with those around him. His legacy of hard work, passion for music, and devotion to family will continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to know him.

 Friends may visit the Schrader-Howell Funeral Home, 280 South Main Street, Plymouth, Michigan on Tuesday, March 19th from 5:00pm-8:00pm.  A Funeral Mass will be held at St. Kenneth Catholic Church on Wednesday, March 20th at 12:00pm with visitation at St. Kenneth beginning at 11:30am until time of mass. 

 Richard will be laid to rest at St. Hedwig Cemetery in Dearborn, Michigan. May he rest in peace knowing that he made a meaningful impact  during his time on earth.

 In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital or Shriner's Hospital for Children.