Richard "Beagle" Vitek

Beloved husband, father, grandfather, and brother passed away on Monday, June 24, 2019, at Henry Ford Hospital, following a lengthy illness. He was 79 years old. Richard Frank Vitek was born on December 14, 1939, the second twin son born to the late Joe and Marjorie (Spendlove) Vitek. He was a 1959 graduate of Arthur Hill High School. Following graduation, Dick attended Delta College, before proudly enlisting in the United States Army National Guard. He married his soul mate and the love of his life, Kay “Katie” Gilbertson on November 2, 1968 at St. Ignatius Catholic Church in Roger City; she survives him. Dick was employed by the Eaton Corporation; retiring on June 1, 1996 after 36 years of dedicated service. He was a member of the Shields Lions Club and Holy Spirit Catholic Church. Dick was a perfectionist and enjoyed meticulously working in his yard. He also loved classic cars. Above all, Dick loved and cherished his family and friends. He will forever be remembered for his wonderful sense of humor, his mellow disposition and his kindness to all in need.

Surviving are his wife of 50 years, Katie Ann Vitek of Thomas Township; son, Jason (Janis) Vitek of Saginaw; two grandsons: Torry Vitek of Saginaw; Michael Vlassis of Bay City; twin brother, Tom Vitek of Columbus; brother, Harry Vitek of Saginaw Twp. Also surviving are two special sisters-in-law, a brother-in-law, cousins, nieces, nephews, extended family members and friends.

A funeral service will take place at 1:00 p.m. on Friday, June 28, 2019, at the W. L. Case and Company Funeral Chapel, 201 N. Miller Road. Pastoral Minister, Kathy Myles will officiate. Honoring Dick’s wishes cremation will follow the service. Friends are welcome to visit with the family at the funeral chapel on Friday from 11:00 a.m. until the time of the funeral service. In lieu of flowers, those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider memorials to the Shields Lions Club or Holy Spirit Catholic Church.