Richard Frank Raklovits

Richard F. Raklovits of Kalamazoo, MI passed away on Tuesday, November 21, 2017 at the age of 89. Born to Anton and Mary Raklovits on June 30, 1928 in Chicago, IL, he grew up the youngest of six and attended Fenger H.S. (Chicago) and University of Illinois where he excelled in football and baseball. Richard served in the Army during the Korean War and played baseball for the Brooklyn Dodgers organization before coming to Western Michigan University in 1957 as Assistant Football Coach and Associate Professor until he retired in 1990. He is survived by his wife Nancy of 65 years; 2 sons Stephen (Janet) and Gregory (Denise); 4 grandchildren Brent, Lynn (Brent), Ashley, and Alexandra; 2 great-grandsons Andrew and Trevor; nieces, nephews, and dear friend Jack Jones. Cremation will take place at Avink Funeral Home and his ashes will rest at First Presbyterian Church columbarium. Visitation for friends and family will take place at First Presbyterian Church (321 W. South St., Kalamazoo, MI) on Saturday, December 16, 2017 from 1:00-3:00pm. The family is grateful to all those who took such good care of him and brought many smiles.