Richard Gray Llope, age 85, of Fenton, Michigan, passed away on Sunday, February 23, 2025. Born on January 6, 1940, in Ithaca, New York, he was the beloved son of the late Richard C. and Jean (Gray) Llope and loving brother to Navaja (formerly Barbara) Llope and the late Gail Llope.

Left to cherish his memory are his children William (Beth) Llope, Cynthia (Chris) Jones and Richard (Virginia) Llope, and 9 grandchildren, Duncan and Catherine Llope; Ben (Megan), Lauren, Megan and Caitlin Jones and Daniel, Joseph and Clare Llope. 

Richard, known as Dick by his family and friends, was a graduate of Hobart College (class of 1962). Upon graduation, he served as a pilot in the US Air Force. In 1965 he was deployed to Vietnam where he was highly decorated for his accomplishments flying F-4 fighter plane missions. Honorably discharged as a captain in 1967, he began his civilian career as a commercial pilot with National Airlines and later with Pan American Airways, from which he retired as a captain.

Richard was an avid golfer and loved volunteering at the Honda Classic PGA golf tournament, which he did for many years. He also enjoyed shooting trap and skeet at the Huntsman’s Club with friends and family. 

While he often pursued solitary entertainment like reading and crossword puzzles, he was a charmer with an impish sense of humor and a love of competition. He loved playing cards and taught his children to play bridge. He also enjoyed cooking, visiting with family, and caring for his beloved dogs, Rocky and Chewey.

In accordance with his wishes Richard was cremated. His memorial service will take place at the Great Lakes Cemetery on May 22, 2025 at 2:00pm. Expressions of sympathy may be shared with the family on Richard’s tribute wall at detroitcremationsociety.com. In lieu of flowers, kindly consider a donation to the American Legion Post 413 in Dick’s name.