Dick Sligh passed away on Saturday evening, July 18, at his home after a long illness. He was known for his love of physical activity, particularly outdoors.
He grew up in a family that was instrumental in developing the sport of water-skiing and he held championship titles in that field. At an early age he became interested in wooden boats and relentlessly developed his skills and knowledge in their history, construction, and repair. Dick’s loyalty, honesty and availability to be of service to others was characteristic of him. He enjoyed good working relationships with others, all of which served him well in his role as president and owner of Grand-Craft Mahogany Runabouts here in Holland, Michigan from 1984 – 2006.
Dick owned and operated a water-ski school in Metropolitan Beach near Detroit as a young adult. He then graduated from Michigan State with a Master’s Degree in mechanical engineering and went on to teach that subject at California-Polytechnic Institute in California. He moved back to Michigan teaching high school in Big Rapids, then became principal of Harbor Springs High School. He owned and operated Sligh Marine while teaching in Petoskey. At the marina he specialized in servicing wooden runabouts.
Subsequently, he moved to Holland to share in the family furniture business with his two brothers. When a fledgling wood boat company became available for sale, he and his wife decided to take on the challenge of owning and operating a small struggling business where his talents and abilities would be tested in a niche market.
Dick’s years at Grand-Craft were marked by many unique relationships, new runabout designs, sales to highly successful people, including movie stars and celebrities. He enjoyed every minute of his career development and gave it his full focus and attention.
The company was sold in 2006 and Dick retired to boating with his wife and involvement in the Antique & Classic Boat Society, Water Wonderland Chapter, The Antique Boat Museum in Clayton, NY and their many national and international activities.
Dick lived an active and full life. He was not afraid to be himself and give 100% of himself to his projects and endeavors. Well-loved by his wife of 48 years, he leaves behind his wife, Marti, his daughters, Lee Ann Sligh in Maine and Gretchen Flores, two grandchildren, Jacob and Hannah, in Colorado and his sister, Patti in California. He has many nieces and nephews.
Dick was active in church life and responsibilities for many years. He and his wife, Marti, met and married at Christ Memorial Church in Holland, Michigan.
Visitation with the family is 10:00-10:45 am on Thursday, July 30, 2026, at Christ Memorial Church, 595 Graafschap Rd. Holland, MI 49423.
Funeral services are that same day at 11:00 am also at Christ Memorial Church with Rev. Dan Miller and Rev. Jim Daniels officiating.
Burial to take place in Hillside Cemetery in Lansing, MI.
Memorial contributions in Dick’s honor may be given to Hospice of Holland at www.hollandhospice.org or Christ Memorial Church at www.christmemorial.org/give/, or to the Antique & Classic Boat Society, Waterwonderland Chapter at www.acbs.org (please indicate Water Wonderland Chapter) or by mail to 422 James Street, Clayton, NY 13624.
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