Richard W. Arend

Richard “Dick” Arend

May 4, 1931 – April 27, 2026

Richard W. Arend, age 94, of Monroe, passed away peacefully from natural causes in his home on Monday, April 27, 2026. Richard would have turned 95 on May 4, 2026.

Born in Toledo, Ohio, Richard was the son of Emil and Marcella (Rohrbacher) Arend. Raised in Toledo, Richard graduated from Devilbiss High School and went on to further his education by attending University of Toledo. 

In March of 1951, Richard proudly enlisted in the United States Air Force, serving his country honorably for four years during the Korean War.

On May 23, 1953, Richard married Lucille Heck of Monroe, MI. Together, they raised four children and spent nearly 73 years together. Richard enjoyed a successful career as an engineer at Tenneco, where he worked for 34 years and served as Director of the Racing Department. His position at Tenneco (previously Monroe Auto Equipment Co.) involved travel to Indy and NASCAR events around the world and allowed him a unique relationship with race car drivers and pit crew. He also generously gave of his time as a volunteer with the Monroe Township Volunteer Fire Department and as a Constable of Monroe Township. Richard was a member of Christ Lutheran Church in Monroe.

He had a passion for refurbishing old cars, particularly Triumphs, and belonged to several car clubs such as the Monroe Antique Car Klub, and the Orphan Car Show - Ypsilanti.  In his spare time, you would find him tinkering on old cars, fishing or boating. In the 1960s, he and Lucille often participated in road rallies, earning several trophies. Richard and Lucille spent many years wintering in Corpus Christi, Texas and loved spending time at their cottage in the Irish Hills area.

To cherish his memory, he leaves his loving wife Lucille, his children: Kevin Arend, Lois (Scott Anthony) Arend, Patricia (Paul) Hollister, Michael (Kathleen) Arend, and a sister-in-law, Daniela Arend, grandchildren: Jessica Arend, Kristin Arend, Bradley (Renee) Hollister and Angela (Michael) Cawley. He also leaves eight great-grandchildren with one on the way and several nieces and nephews. 

Richard is preceded in death by his parents and his brother William.

Family and friends may visit Rupp Funeral Home on Monday May 4, 2026, from 4 until 7 pm. A funeral service in Richard’s honor will begin at 7 pm with Pastor Bill Kirsh-Carr officiating.

Online condolences to the family may be made through www.ruppfuneralhomeinc.com. In lieu of flowers the family requests that donations be made to the Honor Flight Network, or your favorite Public Broadcasting Station.