| Graduation Year | Class of 1960 |
| Date of Birth | Dec 10, 1942 |
| Date of Passing | Oct 03, 2020 |
| About | Richard "Dick" Van Raaphorst (1942-2020) Dick Van Raaphorst passed away at the age of 77 on Oct. 3, 2020 in San Diego. He was born in Charlevoix, MI son of Helen and William Van Raaphorst, the eldest of three boys (Robert & Ronald.) His Northern Michigan roots & relationships were extremely important to him throughout his life. He was a three sport athlete in high school. He went on to attend The Ohio State University on a football scholarship, playing under Woody Hayes. Dick met & married his then wife, Joanne Whitney while at OSU and shortly thereafter eldest son Jeff was born. He played professionally for the Dallas Cowboys and San Diego Chargers. After retiring in San Diego, Dick went on to become a broadcaster, stock broker & real estate investor - sons Billy and Michael were born during this time. His career ultimately took him back to his love of football - this time as a coach & quarterback trainer. He was a father -in law- to Christi and Alison and Grandfather to Jacob, Haley, Cade, Michael, Caroline & Grant. Dad rarely if ever missed an important game or school event - he was always there either coaching or in the stands. He loved a good barbeque with friends. Dad had a passion for golf and always rose to the occasion when there was some money on the line. In times of stress or uncertainty, he was a rock. Dick's children, their spouses and grandchildren learned many life lessons and received unbridled love and support from him. His friends knew they could always depend on him. Coach Van Raap influenced many of his players - he taught them to work hard, be accountable and be humble. He will be missed but never forgotten. Donations may be made in his memory to The First Tee of Northern Michigan https://www.firstteenorthernmichigan.org/ways-to-give/ |
