Richard Laing

Richard (Dick) Laing passed away peacefully on Monday, Nov. 4, 2024, at the age of 94. Born in Ann Arbor, MI, to Lemuel and Mildred (Curtis) Laing, their family moved to Linden, MI where he grew up and resided his entire life until recently, moving to West Michigan to be near family. 

Dick was an MSU alumnus, where he double majored in agriculture and economics. In his early years, he owned a dairy farm in Linden, and later in life was a financial broker. After his retirement he spent his time volunteering to better his community. He was a volunteer for the Red Cross, Genesys Hospital and an active board member and volunteer for the Loose Senior Center, where he started a community garden to help feed the community and teach local students about the importance of farm-to-table. Education was of vital importance to him, having served on the Linden School Board for many years and being a 4-H leader and judge. He was also a proud veteran having served in the Korean War and was an active member of the American Legion. 

Dick is survived by his son-in-law Scott Grossmeyer of Sparta, MI (previously of Fenton), granddaughter Katelin (Zach) Wiersma of Cedar Springs, MI, great-grandson Colton, and three nephews, David (Susie) Biddulph of FL., Chuck Townsend of WA., and Richard (Cathy) Townsend of CT. He was preceded in death by his parents, wife Diane (Arnold) Laing, children Bob Laing and Ruth (Laing), sisters Ruth (Laing) Townsend and Dorothy (Laing) Biddulph. 

A memorial service will be held at a future date. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Linden Mills Historical Society, PO Box 823, Linden MI, 48451 or the American Legion 119 Linden, 4459 Harp Dr., Linden MI, 48451.