Richard "Rick" Alan Underhill

Richard “Rick” UnderhillNovember 28th, 1956 – September 9, 2025

Richard “Rick” Underhill, a native of West Michigan, was a man of many roles, each one filled with love, dedication, and a deep sense of purpose.

To some, he was a coach — a mentor who guided young athletes in baseball, football, and even powder puff football, teaching them not just how to throw a ball or catch a pass, but how to grow as individuals both on and off the field.

To others, he was a trusted colleague. Rick worked for General Motors for over 44 years, first as an electrician and later in troubleshooting and supervision. Whether in Grand Rapids, Flint, Pontiac, or Spring Hill, TN, Rick was known for his willingness to teach and share his expertise with anyone eager to learn. He was equally known for his love of a good potluck, often found bonding with coworkers over a meal.

Richard was an also elder member of the Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians—an honor he took great pride in, proudly sharing his heritage with others.

Many knew Rick best from the golf course. He had a passion for the game that matched any tour pro. Rarely one to shy away from hard work, Rick could easily put in a 12-hour shift, followed by hours of golf, a quick nap, and then repeat the cycle. If you ever needed a golf partner, Rick was always there — ready to hit the links with new grips and “birdie juice” in hand. One of Rick’s fondest golf memories on the golf course was winning the 2024 Rotonda Member Open alongside one of his closest friends, Vic Huerta. The following year, just two weeks before Rick was hospitalized, the duo returned to the tournament and finished in second place. In addition to his tournament play, Rick organized annual golf trips that became a beloved tradition. These gatherings brought together family and friends from near and far, creating lasting memories filled with laughter, friendly competition, and deep camaraderie.

Rick will be deeply missed by his beloved bride of 30 years, Terri Underhill. The couple met by chance at a McDonald’s in August 1994. Eventually, their mutual friendship progressed to love and a lifelong journey together. Over the years, they built a beautiful life — living in Spring Hill, TN, and later moving to East Michigan before retiring to west-central Florida in 2023. Their love was marked by countless adventures, including trips to Aruba, Arizona, and their favorite destination, the mountains of Sevierville, TN. Rick kept a promise to love his bride for 30 years — and continued to honor that vow for all eternity.

Rick’s life was defined by resilience. He fought a long and courageous battle with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), diagnosed in 2012. Though the average life expectancy for someone with PF is 3–5 years, Rick defied the odds, surviving for 13 years. His determination never wavered. After a severe exacerbation earlier this year, Rick underwent a successful double lung transplant. Despite months of love, prayers, and tireless medical efforts, a cycle of pneumonia-related sepsis ultimately prevented his recovery. His strength and fight throughout this ordeal were beyond measure.

Above all, Rick was a man who loved his family and friends with all his heart. He was one of nine siblings and deeply cherished the close bond they shared: Leonard (Susan) Underhill, Thomas (Debra) Underhill, Roderick (Kristine) Underhill, Mary (James) Opaski, Nancy (Jeff) VanHoeven, Matthew (Mary Beth) Underhill, Elizabeth (Michael) Hay, and John (Molly) Underhill. Richard was also very close to his surviving uncles—Larry, Ron, Dwight, and Terry DuPont—as well as to more than 40 nieces and nephews.

Rick was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Richard and Audrey Underhill, who passed just one month apart in 2020 after 66 years of marriage.

He is survived by his children — Benjamin (Tracy), Jacob (Emily), and David (Sarah) — as well as his stepchildren, Jeremy and Joshua (Sarah). Rick is also survived by his grandchildren: Andrew, Lex, Isabelle, Easton, Olivia, Lucas, Rachel, Makayla, and Brady; and one great-grandchild, Camilla.

Rick will always be remembered for the simple pleasures he cherished: a good cup of coffee, perfect golf weather, and the company of loved ones. He was always ready to share his time, stories, knowledge, and faith with anyone in need. His home was often filled with life, love, and the laughter of children — a welcoming place where friends and neighbors were embraced, no matter where they were on their journey.

A Memorial Mass will be held in Rick’s honor at St. John Vianney Church in Wyoming, MI, at 11:00 AM on October 16th, with a reception to follow featuring a donut social for friends and family. A rosary will be prayed at 10:30 AM, led by Rick’s twin brother, Rod.

Rick wished for a more lighthearted celebration of his life, asking friends and family to skip traditional mourning attire in favor of golf shirts, Hawaiian shirts, or clothing representing a favorite sports team. Guests are warmly invited to honor his request, if they feel comfortable doing so.