In Memory

Richard Waring (Social Studies Teacher)

Richard Waring died on Wednesday, September 17, 2014 at age 90.  Information source:  Jim Skelly (DHS '73).

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WARING, RICHARD THOMAS 2014-09-20 WARING RICHARD THOMAS Formerly from Livonia, age 90, passed on Wednesday, September 17, 2014 in Ann Arbor. Richard was born on June 30, 1924 in Detroit, Michigan. Survivors include his children, Nancy Waring (G. Jay deVries) of Ann Arbor, Suzanne Waring (Ed Burr) of Canton, Thomas (Rosemary) Waring of Raleigh, North Carolina, and Jan (Larry) O'Keefe of Lexington; five grandchildren, Margaret Burr (Robert Bernardi), Lauren and Katharine O'Keefe, Nicholas and Rosemary Waring; as well as numerous nieces and nephews and friends. Richard was preceded in death on March 31, 2011 by his wife of 62 years Margaret Rankin (Boyle); as well as his parents, Leo Thomas and Wave Mildred (Willson) Waring; his sisters, Elaine and La Ree; and his brother, Larry Lee Waring. Shortly before he was to graduate from Cass Technical High School in Detroit, Richard enlisted in the Army Air Corps under Voluntary Induction. He served stateside from March 1943 until February 1946. Richard took night school classes at Cass Tech to complete his high school credits. He was the first in his family to go to college. Richard attended Michigan State University on the GI Bill majoring in Social Science. While raising four children, Richard completed his education certification at The University of Michigan. Richard retired from teaching Social Studies at Dearborn High School in July 1986. Prior to that he taught in the Pinckney, Ann Arbor, and Dexter Public Schools. Richard's greatest love was his family. He often told his children and grandchildren that "where there is a will there is a way" and then, even after their best efforts on any task, he would always smile and say "you could do better". His many wonderful traits included his passion for reading, frequently sending clippings from the New York Times and the Detroit Free Press to his children as homework. He was very opinionated politically and thoroughly enjoyed arguing his point. He was a proud union member. Richard enjoyed his summers up north in Beulah, working for many years alongside his wife Margo to make sure that every one of their guests at their summer home at Crystal Lake had a memorable experience. Margo in her later years suffered many serious illnesses. Richard was always there for her. He loved sports, especially when Michigan State beat The University of Michigan. He was a devoted fan of the Detroit Tigers, Pistons and Lions. Richard was passionate about genealogy. In 2005 he began work on the story of his life to share with his grandchildren. They treasure the photos and stories that he shared. In September 2009 Richard and Margaret moved from their home in Livonia to Glacier Hills Senior Living Community in Ann Arbor. Richard sincerely appreciated all of the new friendships and truly exceptional care by the wonderful staff at Glacier Hills. A Funeral Service will be held on Monday, September 22, 2014 at 10:00 a.m. at the Muehlig Funeral Chapel of Ann Arbor, with visitation on Sunday, September 21, from 3:00 until 5:00 p.m. Donations may be offered to the Salvation Army, or the charity of your choice.

 

1971 DHS Pioneer Yearbook

 

1970 DHS Pioneer Yearbook

 

1969 DHS Pioneer Yearbook

 

1969 DHS Pioneer Yearbook