Richard G. Gresla, 94, of Central Lake, Michigan, and winter resident of Fairhope passed away Friday, March 3, 2023, at Adams Memorial Hospital, Decatur, Indiana.
He was born on September 1, 1928, in Monroe, Michigan to the late George Gresla and the late Olga (Schmidt) Gresla.
Richard was married to Maxine O. Burnham on February 4, 1956, in Lansing Michigan. She preceded him in death on July 1, 2022, after 66 years of marriage.
He was a supply officer in the Navy during the Korean War, where he served on a destroyer.
Richard was a member of St. James Episcopal Church in Fairhope, Alabama. He was a lifelong active member of several churches and served in many supportive positions.
Richard graduated from Monroe High School (Michigan) in 1946, where he was Co-Valedictorian. He studied at the University of Michigan where he received a B.S in Engineering in 1951, and a Master of Business Administration in 1955. He was a long-time corporate controller for Joy Manufacturing, and retired from their successor, Cooper Industries, in Houston Texas in 1987.
Richard had a passion for playing tennis, well into his seventies, and walked over 5 miles a day for over 40 years. He also enjoyed his evening martini.
Survivors include three sons, Dr. Mark (Janelle) Gresla, of Decatur, Indiana; Eric (Madhu) Gresla of Chicago, Illinois; and Timothy (Janiene) Gresla, of Winchester, Massachusetts; eight grandchildren, Abby Gresla, Jennifer (Robert) Chapa, Ashley (Tom) Huie, John (Alice) Gresla, Alicia Gresla, Christopher Gresla, Nicholas Gresla, Kristen Gresla; and five great-grandchildren, Noah, Olivia, Charlotte, Amelia, Madelyn, and a sixth great-grandson is expected in June.
In addition to his parents and wife, he was preceded in death by his brothers, Robert and Jack, and a sister, Carol Heck.
A memorial service will be held at a later date in Monroe, Michigan with interment at Lakeview Cemetery in Central Lake Michigan.
For further information, tributes, or memorial service updates please visit Obituary | Richard G. Gresla | Zwick and Jahn Funeral Homes (zwickjahn.com)
