Richard “Dick” George Verbeke

Richard “Dick” George Verbeke, passed away Thursday, January 22, 2026 at Medilodge of Yale.

He was born in Richmond, September 14, 1946, to the late Walter and Louise (Herman) Verbeke.

Dick proudly served his country with the United States Army from 1968 to 1969 as a helicopter pilot in Vietnam. He served a total of 4 years, obtaining the rank of Chief Warrant Officer. He was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross, 32 Combat Air Medals as well as various other commendations. Stateside, he served as a helicopter pilot and flight instructor in Colorado.

Dick did many things through his life. He was proud of his work as a dairy farmer in Lynn Township. He then worked in real estate, retiring as the broker/owner of Regional Realty in 2012. Dick served as Mayor of Yale from 1998-2001, Commander of VFW Post #8594, long time Yale Chamber of Commerce member and President in addition to serving on the Yale School Board. He was very proud of the Yale Bologna Festival, being one of the original organizers.

He is survived by his best friend and life partner for 25 years, Patricia Burden, his daughters Heather Verbeke and Tracey (David) Obenour, brother, Timothy (Laurie) Verbeke, beloved nephew, Ryan (Angie) Verbeke and nieces, Jillian (Alex) Hamilton and Sarah (Nick) Vavra. He embraced Pat’s son, Jonathan (Jennifer) and their boys, Daniel and Arthur, as his own. He has also left behind great nieces and nephews as well as a very large extended family of cousins, aunts and uncles. Richard was predeceased by two brothers, Albert and Mark.

Dick had a strong love for nature and birds, creating gardens, puttering around on projects and travelling.

Per his wishes, he had a private green burial at The Preserve at All Saints Cemetery, Waterford, MI. We are having a Celebration of Life for Dick, on Sunday, June 7, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. at the White Barn Event Venue located at 8189 Mason Rd., Yale, 48097. The venue was originally the cow barn from his dairy farming days! The newest owners have turned it into a wonderful space and I think Dick would get a big kick out of being back there.