Richard J. Ferris

Lansing, MI

On May 31, 2020, Richard J. Ferris, beloved husband of Sally Ferris of sixty-five years, passed away in St. Pete Beach, Florida, at age 85. He was born in Lansing, MI, on September 18, 1934. A lifelong resident of Lansing, he is survived by not only his wife Sally, but his daughter Susan, and nieces and nephews, Doug Sayler, Bill, Debra, Kim, and Patrick. He was preceded in death by his son Michael Ferris.

Dick, as he was known, was a loyal employee of the Lansing State Journal for forty-three years, retiring as Circulation Director. He was a mentor to many LSJ employees during his career. He was not just a boss or supervisor, but was a friend to his colleagues. He was always supportive and giving whether at work or at home. In his retirement years Dick and Sally enjoyed being part-time residents of Lansing during the summer months, while enjoying St. Pete Beach during the winter months.

An avid walker and cyclist, Dick enjoyed conversations along his routes, always taking time to interact with and enjoy others. Dick was a true MSU fan and Detroit Tiger fan. Many years he played recreational softball in Lansing. A competitor at heart, he enjoyed Euchre and Cribbage tournaments. And of course when fall came Dick also enjoyed deer hunting trips with his friends.

Throughout his years in Lansing, Dick worked on a variety of community projects designed to help those in need. Two of his favorites were the Old Newsboys where he served as past president, and the United Way where he worked with other community leaders.

Dick Ferris’s giving spirit lives on in his friends of many years: Mark Wise, Barry Schopp, Skip Croley, and Bill Barker. His devoted and loving wife Sally wishes to thank this special group of men for all they did to help and support Dick during his struggle with poor health. She also thanks all the caregivers at The Palms of Pasadena hospital who made Dick comfortable. The love for Dick lives on in the memories of all who have been touched by his life.

A private celebration of Dick’s life will be held. Memorial contributions may be made to the Old Newsboys Association of Greater Lansing or the Capital Area United Way. Arrangements are by the Estes-Leadley Greater Lansing Chapel.

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9 Messages to “Richard J. Ferris

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Dave Meade
June 4, 2020 at 7:15 am

gods speed Dick remembered from USCPFA and biking , Loved that airdyne on your porch

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Tim Malatinsky
June 6, 2020 at 8:46 am

Very sorry to hear about Mr. Ferris passing. Always looked forward to seeing him walking during the summer months on Moores River Drive.

Krystal and I will keep you in our thoughts and prayers.

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Shirley wheeler
June 6, 2020 at 8:50 am

To Sally and Susan, my thoughts and prayers are with you, everyone just lost a really “fun guy” and a real gentleman.

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Jim Rypkema
June 6, 2020 at 10:35 am

Sue,

Haven’t see or talked to you in many years. I send my deepest sympathy on your dad’s passing. I’ll be reaching out to you.

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Kevin klein
June 6, 2020 at 5:17 pm

Sally & Sue; Dick was one of the rare people who I’m sure his title was executive but one wouldn’t know it; he was a very nice; caring; gentleman; we go so far back & his passing; he will be so truly missed. My deepest condolences to you both; & with much love- ~kevin klein~

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Mary K Barnes
June 7, 2020 at 11:46 am

My dear Sally, I was saddened when I learned of Dick’s passing. I do hope he is at peace. I always remember him walking on Washington Ave., during the lunch hours. He never met a stranger and spoke to all he seen. I do hope you and your daughter are well, please stay safe.

Mary Ross Barnes

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Walt Byington
June 8, 2020 at 1:06 pm

My condolences to Sally and the family. I first met Dick when he and Sally when I was in High School working at Kewpee’s. They would come in at 7 like clock work every Thursday night. Then i would run into Dick at the barber shop or somewhere downtown. We always took a few minutes to catch up. In later years I would run into Dick with Old Newsboys. I remember he would stop what he was doing and get my papers and we’d catch up.

He was a good guy that will be missed in the Lansing Community.

Walter M. (Monty) Byington

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Ron Rusnell
June 9, 2020 at 9:15 am

Dear Sally, I am so sorry about Dick’s passing. I met Dick back about 70 years ago and we have been friends since.

Remember him saving money from his paper route to buy his first bicycle.

When I was station in Korea in 1952 he would write me letters about different things.

Taking good care of his Mother.

To me, this is Dick Ferris.

Sally, Good Luck and Stay Save

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Ingrid Barkley
June 10, 2020 at 5:33 pm

Dear Ferris Family, My sincerest condolences to you. He was my supervisor at the State Journal years ago. When they had telemarketers. He was a very nice man and may he rest in peace. Love to you Family. Sincerely, Ingrid Barkley

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