More detail on this person: Richard "Dick" George Verbeke, passed away Thursday, January 22, 2026 at the Medilodge of Yale. He was born in Richmond, September 14, 1946, to the late Walter and Louise (Herman) Verbeke. Dick proudly served his country with the United States Army from 1968 to 1969 as a helicopter pilot in Vietnam. He served a total of 4 years, obtaining the rank of Chief Warrant Officer. He was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross, 32 Combat Air Medals as well as various other commendations. Stateside, he served as a helicopter pilot and flight instructor in Colorado. Richard did many things through his life. He was proud of his work as a dairy farmer in Lynn Township. He then worked in real estate, retiring as the broker/owner of Regional Realty in 2012. Dick served as Mayor of Yale from 1998-2001, Commander of VFW Post #8594, long time Yale Chamber of Commerce member and President in addition to serving on the Yale School Board. He was very proud of the Yale Bologna Festival, being one of the original organizers. He is survived by his best friend and life partner for 25 years, Patricia Burden, his daughters Heather Verbeke and Tracey (David) Obenour, brother, Timothy (Laurie) Verbeke, beloved nephew, Ryan (Angie) Verbeke and nieces, Jillian (Alex) Hamilton and Sarah (Nick) Vavra. He embraced Pat's son, Jonathan (Jennifer) and their boys, Daniel and Arthur as his own. He has also left behind great nieces and nephews as well as a very large extended family of cousins, aunts and uncles. Richard was predeceased by two brothers Albert and Mark. Dick had a strong love for nature and birds, creating gardens, puttering around on projects and travelling. Per his wishes, he will have a private green burial at The Preserve at All Saints Cemetery, Waterford, MI. A celebration of life will be held when the sun is warm, the birds are singing and the flowers are blooming. Arrangements were entrusted to Kaatz Funeral Directors, Yale.
Burial information: The Preserve at All Saints Cemetery, Waterford, MI
This information was last updated 04/09/2026
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Date posted on this site: 04/18/2026
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