Richard "Rich" Battles

Age 57, of Mt. Morris, passed away on Monday, October 5, 2026 surrounded by his family. A funeral service will take place at 4:00 pm on Saturday, October 10, 2026, at Martin Funeral, Cremation & Tribute Services, 1194 East Mt. Morris Road, Mt. Morris, Michigan. Mr. Gary Pillow to officiate with cremation to follow. Family will be present to receive friends on Saturday, October 10, 2026 from 1:00 pm until the time of the service at 4:00 pm. Expressions of sympathy may be shared with the family on Richard's tribute wall at martinfuneralhome.com.

Richard “Rich” Everett Owen Battles' sunrise began on May 13, 1969. The son of Mr. and Mrs. James and Marilyn (Casey) Battles. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend whose genuine kindness and positive spirit touched everyone he met. He graduated from Flint Southwestern High School with the Class of 1988. Rich married the love of his life, Trudy, on March 1, 1991, in Flint. Together, they built a beautiful life centered around family, friendship, and cherished memories. Rich was happiest when surrounded by family and friends and never met a stranger. Whether standing in line at Kroger or gathering with loved ones, he could strike up a conversation with anyone. He loved talking about cars, dirt bikes, and just about anything else. His caring nature and positive personality made him easy to love and often made him the life of the party.

From 1994 to 2008, Rich proudly owned and operated JB Creme. He loved meeting people and seeing the excitement on children's faces as they enjoyed their ice cream. Rich also enjoyed fixing cars and dirt bikes, cooking, barbecuing, and hosting pig roasts. He was creative, a problem solver, and always found a way to bring people together. Above all, Rich treasured his family, especially family gatherings and spending time with his grandchildren. He also enjoyed dancing and was a proud Detroit Lions fan. Rich faced pancreatic cancer with incredible strength and determination. He remained a fighter throughout his journey, showing the same courage and positive spirit that defined his life.

Rich will be lovingly remembered by his wife, Trudy; children: Richard Jr. (Jennifer) and Brittney (Nate); grandchildren: Lily, Ava, Tahlia, Tristan, Levi, and Charlotte; siblings: Jay, Lisa (Charles), Jeff (Stacy), and Hope; and many beloved brothers in-law, sisters in-law, nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents: James and Marilyn.

Rich's warm smile, caring heart, contagious laughter, and gift for making everyone feel welcome will remain in the hearts of his loved ones forever. Though his sunset has come, the light he brought to others will never fade.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Project Purple or to the family.