Richard Allen Hart

Al was born to the late Lillian and Wayne Hart in Detroit, Michigan. He graduated from Fitzgerald High School and very proudly served his country as a member of the United States Marine Corp. during the Vietnam war. When he returned, he married the love of his life, Joan Carter, and quickly grew their family when Jennifer, Scott and Cheryl were born. Their home was always full of kids and love and the best kind of chaos. The grass in the front yard would never be lush and pretty like the neighbors’ because of the constant ball, tag, and bikes being ridden on it. A small price to pay for the fun that was had! He loved the life he lived in Warren and the friendships that endured all of these years.

Al loved coaching his kids’ baseball and softball teams and truly cherished the relationships with these friends and teammates long after he was their coach. He would chuckle about being called ‘Big Al’ after the kids grew much bigger than him! He was so proud of all of their accomplishments and loved to catch up with them at every opportunity.

After 34 years, Al retired from Chrysler where he was a welder repairman. One of his favorite things about being retired was that he had so much more time to golf. His weekly rounds and lunches with the guys brought him so much happiness (and frustration, because, well, golf).

Shortly after he retired, Al and Joanie took their favorite trip - a three month road trip around the country. They were avid gamblers who loved a trip to play bingo just as much as a trip to Vegas. He dominated the bingo and poker scene at the community where he lived for the last several years. He loved to win but also the fun banter that accompanied. Al was a lifelong fan of the Detroit Tigers and Lions, even though it sometimes brought him more heartache than joy.

Al was a hard worker and provided for his family and really came into his own when he became a G-pa. He had such special relationships with Joey, Nikki (Alex), Ryan, Samantha, Ava and Jacob. He was their biggest supporter who encouraged them to be and do good but also always have fun. Even more fun than their parents would prefer sometimes! He attended countless games, concerts, recitals and competitions, always ready to support and cheer them on. He also loved when they would have a regular visit. It didn’t have to be a special event. Any time with the grandkids was good with him.

In addition to Joanie and his parents, Al was preceded in death by his twin sister, Eileen (Eddie, Jim) and siblings Larry (Patsy, Elaine) and Lois (John).

Al is survived by his kids, kids in law Andy, Teresa and Dion, and grandkids. His siblings-in-law David (late Ruth), Jean, and Sharon (Rock) took such good care of him and also his dog Presley after Joanie died. He was (and we are) forever grateful to them for their love and support and laughs. He is also survived by nieces and nephews and so many old and new friends, not the least of which are his crazy Canadians. A special note of gratitude for his niece Renee who always provided much care and counsel but especially in the last chapter of his life.

A memorial service with military honors will be held at Cadillac Memorial Gardens East on Monday, April 6 at 11 am with a lunch immediately following at Fern Hill Golf Club. We encourage everyone attending to wear their Detroit Tigers gear or his favorite color purple. He would love if you would wear your ‘good Levi’s’ or whatever you’re most comfortable in.

In lieu of flowers, Al would say to spend your money taking your family to a baseball game or donate to a charity of your choice!