Silent Key: Richard “Rich” L. Feole

Richard "Rich" L. Feole, 61, of Battle Creek, Michigan, former executive director of the Calhoun County Consolidated Dispatch Authority and a member of APCO International and Michigan APCO since 2005, passed away April 12 following a battle with cancer.

Feole built a 27-year career dedicated to strengthening emergency communications in Michigan, serving in leadership roles at Mason-Oceana 911 and Calhoun County Consolidated Dispatch Authority. He served as Michigan APCO chapter president and was active on multiple committees focused on 9-1-1 advancement, leaving a legacy of innovation and leadership that touched communities across the state.

Known for leading by example, Feole was a mentor to many in the field and a strong advocate for new technologies in emergency communications centers. Colleagues remembered him for the care and warmth he brought to his work and the people around him.

Feole is survived by his wife, Kay; son Dean Feole; daughters Kristen (Zach) Auchenbach, Tara Slayton and Denae Scheidler; and brothers Scott Feole, Matt Feole and Joe Feole.

A celebration of life will be held Tuesday, May 26, at 11 a.m. at Marshall United Methodist Church, 721 U.S. Highway 27 N, Marshall, Michigan, with visitation beginning at 10 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Shields of Hope (shieldsofhope.org) or the HLHS Class of 1983 Memorial Scholarship Fund (myrccf.org).