Richard W. "Rick" Juhnke, Dmd

Dr. Richard W. "Rick" Juhnke, DMD, age 72, of Burlington, Michigan passed away unexpectedly on Thursday evening, June 9, 2022. He was born in Mount Pleasant, Michigan on September 4, 1949, the son of LeRoy W and Anna L. (Dietrich) Juhnke, MD. Rick faithfully served his country as a member of the United States Navy. He received a P.A. degree from Alderson Broaddus University and his D.M.D. degree from Case Western Reserve University. Rick operated his own dental practice in Ohio for several years before coming to Michigan and eventually joining the practice of Dr. Matthew C. Christopher, DDS in 2006, and was a member of the Rotary Club in Union City.

Rick married his wife, Ellen M. (Apol) Juhnke in Union City on August 19, 2011; she survives. He is also survived by his children, Brandon, Matthew (Kristina), and Lissa Juhnke; his grandchildren, Skyler, Mackenzie, and Silas; his brother & sisters, Carol Ann (Ted) Tobie, James L. (Sharon) Juhnke, Susan Kaye (Dennis) Wilson and Kathryn L. (John) Oberlin; his step-children, Luke (Jenn) Gessner, Chad Gessner, and David Stock; Ellen's sister & brother, Janice (Dr. Mark McCormick) Apol and Bob (Jane) Apol; and several nieces & nephews. Rick was preceded in death by his parents, and a brother, Frederick John Juhnke.

Rick was truly a student of his profession and enjoyed reading, both for his education and for entertainment. He also enjoyed music, hunting, and snow skiing, and served on the ski patrol for several years. A true family man, Rick loved his family and enjoyed spending time with all of them.

At Rick's request, a private interment with full military honors will be held at Fort Custer National Cemetery. A public celebration of Rick's life will be announced at a later date. Arrangements by Farley Estes Dowdle Funeral Home & Cremation Care, Battle Creek.