Rick Hodgson, age 64, moved on to his next great adventure on October 3, 2026 just 10 days before his 65thbirthday. He is joining his parents, Deane and Glenadine Hodgson; his son, Andy Elliott; his son-in-law, Tim Wooten; and his brother-in-law, Nolan Hanson.

Rick was born in Sturgis, Michigan. He graduated from White Pigeon High School where he was an All-Conference tackle. His team was inducted into the White Pigeon Hall of Fame. After High School, Rick graduated from Western Michigan University. Rick married the love of his life, Michelle, on April 20, 1991. They were married for 36 amazing years.

Rick loved people. He always found a way to help anyone who needed him. He made people laugh. And he enjoyed spending time with his family. Rick will be remembered lovingly by many; but especially his wife, Michelle; his and Michelle’s siblings, Denise and Doug Scott, Deb and Mike Hargreave, Ray and Betsy Hodgson, Jeff and Sherry Hanson, Ken and Bonnie Hanson, Vivian and Rick Hulsey; and Michelle’s parents, Mike and Deanne Hanson. Also remembering Dad or Grampa are Rick’s children, Sarah and Jason Bennett; Chelsea Hodgson; Katie Wooten and Tim Irvine; and Hannah Hodgson; and Grandchildren, Drake, Chance, Jack, Ellie, Drue, Daisy, Orly, Gabriel, Emersyn and Rowyn.

After graduating from Western Michigan University, Rick was called by his Grandfather, Ray Hodgson, who offered him the opportunity to work for his Dad and Grampa at Ray Hodgson, Inc. At the “Garage”, Rick learned everything about running the dealership from service and parts to selling cars and working with people. He found the time spent with his Dad was priceless. The skills he learned were useful in all of his future jobs.

Along with working hard, Rick loved playing hard. He was part of the Sunday Valley Pool League, where he had the reputation of being the guy who was “running the table”. He loved the outdoors. If you came by the lake house you might be invited to play horseshoes or take a boat ride. But his favorite outdoor activity was deer hunting. Rick was known for “Baggin’ the Big Buck” and taking a nap in the woods. Rick’s kids have fond memories of their weekend rides through the countryside and walks in the woods with the perfect walking sticks.

This tribute ends, as most tributes do, with heartfelt thanks to some very precious people: to “Rick’s Girls”, Katie, Deb, and Sherry – giving meds, preparing meals, taking notes, cleaning up - you were always there to assist Michelle in meeting Rick’s needs; to Aunt Sandy Gage – your conversations with Rick gave him strength; to Cousin Donny – you’ve known Rick since birth, and your frequent talks helped him through; to Mark and Pam – as Rick’s best friends you understand him, and always have, and you knew just what his soul needed; and Michelle – no words can express all that you did for Rick throughout your marriage, but especially these last months.

In honor of Rick, his family requests that donations be made to Oaklawn Hospice (13444 Preston Drive, Marshall, MI, 49068). Donations can also be made to Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation (PO Box 24041, New York, NY10087).

In keeping with Rick’s wishes, cremation is being conducted. Visitation for Rick will be held on Friday, October 9, 2026 at the Eickhoff Funeral Home (311 W Main St., Mendon, MI 49072) from 1pm until 3pm, with funeral services beginning at 3pm. Following the service, there will be a gathering held at the “Hansonville Family Campground” (370 Oliverda Drive, Sherwood, MI 49089). Condolences and memories may be expressed to Rick’s family at eickhofffuneralhome.com