Obituary of Richard Alan Fedchenko
Age 71, of Clio, passed away Tuesday, December 7, 2021, at home, surrounded by his family. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 11:00 AM on Tuesday, December 14, 2021, at SS Charles and Helena Catholic Church in Clio, MI, Rev. Fr. Kenneth Coughlin officiating. The family will receive visitors prior to the Mass from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM. Friends may visit the family at Martin Funeral Home, 1194 E. Mt. Morris Road, Mt Morris, MI on Monday, December 13th, from 3:00 to 8:00 PM. If desired, memorial contributions may be made to Defeat MSA Alliance in Rochester, MI, or SS Charles and Helena Catholic Church. Expressions of sympathy may be left for the family at martinfuneralhome.com.
Rich was born in Flint, MI on November 28, 1950, to the late Victor and Belva (Gainer) Fedchenko. Richard attended Mt. Morris Consolidated Schools, graduating in 1968. He received a degree in Education from Western Michigan University and a Master's in School Administration from Central Michigan University. Rich served the Mt. Morris Schools District for 31 years as a teacher, coach, and principal.
Rich married the love of his life, Marilyn Charboneau, in 1971. He was a kind and loving husband and they celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on August 7, 2021. In addition, Rich was a proud and loving father to his children, Kacie and Joe. He devoted much of his time to attending their school activities, shooting hoops in the driveway, camping at Jellystone, or cheering on the Detroit Tigers, The Detroit Lions, and the University of Michigan. Rich always encouraged Joe and Kacie to do their best and always wanted the very best for them.
Rich was a hardworking man. People often referred to him as the “Energizer Bunny.” He took great pride in cultivating the best lawn in the neighborhood. Rich made sure Marilyn always had the cleanest car in the parking lot and was even spotted washing it while in a body cast after back surgery. Rich was a member of Clio Country Club and enjoyed golfing with friends and was a devoted U of M fan (GO BLUE!). Rich was also an active member of SS Charles and Helena Catholic Church. People were drawn to Rich’s contagious smile, enthusiasm, and kindness. Many people considered him a friend. He will be greatly missed.
Rich fought a long battle with MSA. He was determined to live a full life in spite of the limitations caused by the disease. Rich never complained and never lost his positive attitude.
Left to cherish his memory is his loving wife, Marilyn Fedchenko; children Kacie Wendling and husband, Michael; Joe Fedchenko and wife MaryEllen; grandchildren Eli Wendling, Shellaine Wendling, Vance Payer; sisters Vicki Stimac, Tania Noe and husband, Dennis; brother Greg Fedchenko and wife Terilyn; sisters-in-law Nancy Sura; Judy Schroeder and husband Neil; Margie Arndt and husband Bob; brother-in-law Tim Charboneau and wife Deborah; and many beloved nieces and nephews.
Rich was preceded in death by his parents Victor and Belva Fedchenko; father-in-law, Jack Charboneau; mother-in-law, Theresa Charboneau and sister, Cyndi Beggs.
Rich's obituary was lovingly written by his family.