Richard Joseph Michels, of Greenfield, died Saturday, April 23, 2016 at Zilber Hospice in Wauwatosa. He was 76 years old. He was born on June 22, 1939 in West Bend, a son of the late Richard and Angeline (Schnepf) Michels. He married Audrey Spurgeon on December 27, 1970.

Richard worked with and developed products for the automotive, marine and airline industries. He owned and operated a manufacturing and product developing plant in Indianapolis, Indiana and later Monarch Products, a manufacturing company in Pinellas County, Florida. His profession lead him to work in 13 states and Canada.

In addition to his wife, Audrey, survivors include two daughters, Jacalyn “Jacaie” Coutant of Milwaukee and Robin (Michael) Shull of Bryon, IL; a grandson, Chadwick Coutant of Milwaukee; a sister, Ruth (Frank) Salter of West Bend; and brother, James (Diane) Michels of West Bend. He is further survived by many nieces, nephews, grandnieces, grandnephews, extended family and friends. He enjoyed working with people. He was a mentor to many and had friends of all ages.

A funeral service will be held on Wednesday at 11 a.m. at the Bradley Funeral Home with Pastor Gary Spurgeon officiating. Burial will take place in Elmwood Cemetery. Visitation will be Tuesday from 4 to 7 p.m. and Wednesday from 10 to 11 a.m. at the funeral home.