Richard Allen “Al” Gandy, age 86 of Three Rivers, Michigan, passed away on May 20, 2026 at Bronson Methodist Hospital in Kalamazoo, MI. He was born on April 10, 1940 in Chicago, IL the son of Theodore “Ted” and Olivia (Turner) Gandy.

Al spent his early years in Battle Creek and began his college career at Ashland College.

A proud patriot, Al served his country honorably in the United States Army, First Cav during the Vietnam War from 1967 to 1968. For his bravery and dedication, he was awarded the Bronze Star, Good Conduct Metal and received a Purple Heart. 

On August 25, 1973, he married Marietta Burdick, at the Kellogg Bird Sanctuary in Augusta, Michigan. They were among the last couples permitted to be married there at the bird sanctuary. 

Following their marriage, they lived in the Lansing area where he studied at Michigan State University, where he earned his Master’s Degree in Environmental Education. Al and Marietta moved to Flaming Gorge, Utah, where he worked as an Environmental Education Coordinator for the United States Forest Service. During their time there, they served as caretakers of Swett Ranch, a remote mountain homestead where they truly lived off the land, making only occasional trips into town. They spent three memorable years there before returning to Battle Creek to be closer to family. They later settled in Three Rivers, where they remained for many years.

Al was an aspiring writer and lifelong learner. He authored a weekly column for the The Salt Lake Tribune titled Eco Ed's Nature Notes, sharing his passion and knowledge of the natural world. He was writing a book tentatively titled Quantum Spirituality and he was working on it until his passing. An avid reader, Al enjoyed studying religion, astronomy, and astrophysics. He found great joy in gardening and listening to jazz music.

Professionally, Al worked at Kalamazoo Valley Community College. After writing an instructional program on HVAC systems, he was invited to teach at the college, where he remained until his retirement. He was also a strong supporter of the Veterans of Foreign Wars and a member of the Disabled American Veterans.

He is survived by his loving wife, Marietta Gandy of Three Rivers, Michigan; his siblings, Ron Gandy of Battle Creek, Michigan and Karen Gandy of California; along with four nieces and nephews, many grand nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

In accordance with his wishes, cremation has taken place and services will be announced at a later date.

Ray Funeral Services, 305 Rock River Ave., Three Rivers, MI 49093, has been entrusted with Al’s care.