Richard F. Ambrose Jr.

Richard F. Ambrose Jr., age 74, a longtime resident of Northville, passed away peacefully on March 17, 2026. He was born on January 21, 1952, in Detroit, Michigan, son of Richard and Lois (Leisner) Ambrose. Richard was united in marriage to Kathryn Peltier on October 6, 1984; they spent over 41 years dedicated to their love and family.

Rick graduated from Stevenson High School in Livonia with the Class of 1970. He went on to further his education at Schoolcraft College and Eastern Michigan University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree with a concentration in biology and chemistry in 1975. Driven to pursue his dream, he continued his studies at the Illinois College of Podiatric Medicine, where he received his doctorate in 1980.

He began his career as a podiatrist, working in several offices before opening his own practice in Adrian, Michigan, in the early 1990s. Through his dedication, intelligence, and warm personality, his practice quickly flourished. He later expanded, opening additional offices in Westland and Livonia. Over the course of more than 35 years, Rick built not only a successful career but also meaningful connections with generations of families in the communities he served. He provided care for the Dominican Nuns in Adrian and was known to make house calls to the convent, reflecting his deep compassion and commitment to others. Above all, Rick cherished the relationships he formed with his patients, taking time to listen to their stories and creating lasting bonds. He retired in 2019.

Rick had a deep appreciation for craftsmanship and history, which was reflected in his many hobbies and interests. He was an avid collector of vintage watches and clocks, amassing a collection of more than 300 timepieces over the years. He loved working with his hands; building, restoring, and woodworking. He generously shared his talents by helping to restore St. Joseph’s Shrine, a historic church in downtown Detroit.

Rick also had a passion for classic cars. He proudly owned several, including a 1950s Austin-Healey, a 1966 Mustang, a 1964 Ford truck, and a 1920s Mercedes kit car. He not only admired these vehicles but truly enjoyed them, often attending car shows and the Woodward Dream Cruise where he could share his enthusiasm with fellow car lovers. He found joy in simple pleasures as well, from visiting museums, air shows, and war reenactments to spending time outdoors. Since childhood, Rick loved riding his bicycle and being on the water, whether boating or jet skiing. Many cherished vacations were spent at his family cottage on Devils Lake.

Scouting also held a special place in his life; as a former Boy Scout, he later supported and encouraged his sons in their own scouting journeys. Rick was an avid reader and enjoyed classic television and movies, especially attending the Film Noir Festival at the historic Redford Theater with his sons. He had a special love for animals, particularly cats, and seemed to have a natural ability to attract them wherever he went. Above all, Rick treasured time spent with his family. He was a loyal friend, a devoted husband, and a loving father whose warm smile will be deeply missed.

Richard is survived by his loving wife, Kathryn Peltier; his sons, Evan (Ava Dark) Ambrose and Graham (Raleigh Butler) Ambrose; his brother, Robert (Caroline) Ambrose; his brother-in-law, Peter (Polly) Peltier; his nieces and nephews, Angela (Mark) Maurin, Jenni (Adam) Renshaw, John (Victoria) Ambrose, William Peltier, and Shane Peltier; and his great nephews, Wyatt Maurin and Grant Maurin. Rick is also survived by many cousins and dear friends. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother James Ambrose.

Visitation will be held Sunday, March 22, 2026 from 2:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. at Casterline Funeral Home, 122 West Dunlap, Northville. A funeral mass will be celebrated on Tuesday, March 24, 2026 at 11:00 a.m., instate at 10:30 a.m. at Our Lady of Victory Catholic Church, 133 Orchard Drive, Northville.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the Humane Society of Huron Valley, 3100 Cherry Hill Road, Ann Arbor, MI 48105, Capuchin Soup Kitchen, 1820 Mount Elliot Street, Detroit, MI 48207, or American Cancer Society/">American Cancer Society, 29777 Telegraph Road, Suite 1451, Southfield, MI 48034.