Richard had a wonderful childhood with his parents Elsie and Sam Merkle and sister, Phyllis, who was 16 years his senior. Richard worked in his father’s very successful tire business throughout high school and college, but always knew his heart was set on a career in medicine.

He married Linda at age 24, and they were happily married for 50 years. To his wife, Linda, and daughters Laura, Suzie, and Karen he was a leader, role model, friend and hero. Beneath his quiet, soft spoken demeanor, he was a knowledgeable, extremely handy man with a great sense of humor and an impish smile. He loved traveling the world, fishing, playing golf, skiing, gardening and relaxing in Siesta Key, Florida with his family.

He embraced his role as father-in-law to Michael, Alan and Mike and took great pride in his nine grandchildren Eric, Alex and Nikolas Gruskin; Brittany, Bradley and Jenna Silverman; Lexie, Jackson and Julia Finkelstein.

He was an Anesthesiologist at William Beaumont Hospital where he served as Chairman of the Department of Anesthesiology from 1981-1996 and President of South Oakland Anesthesia Associates from 2000-2005. He had a thirst for learning which he shared with all who knew him. His remarkable calm, kindness and professional expertise made him well respected by his partners, medical teams and patients.

Richard was a man of integrity, intelligence and humanity. Both his family and colleagues at Beaumont Hospital agree that when you are faced with a difficult or even what seems like an impossible situation, stop, and ask yourself this question……
“What Would Richard Do?” and you’ll be OK.