Richard Bulan

Richard Bulan, 83, of Vermilion, passed away peacefully at his home on Wednesday, December 10, 2025, after a lengthy illness.

Born July 6, 1942, in Cleveland, OH, Richard spent his childhood summers in Vermilion, where his parents owned a small cottage. Those early days by the lake-filled with boating, fishing, and a growing love for the water-sparked the deep connection to Vermilion that would ultimately lead him to make it his home. He moved to Vermilion from Parma 60 years ago and quickly became a deeply rooted and respected member of the community he cherished.

Richard proudly served his country in the United States Navy as part of the submarine service, serving aboard the Requiem and Torsky in the early 1960s. His time in the Navy shaped his sense of discipline, duty, and teamwork-qualities he carried with him throughout his life.

Following his military service, Richard began his career as a tool and die maker with Ford Motor Company in Sandusky. He later transitioned to the Avon Lake facility, where he worked in maintenance and retired after 30 dedicated years. Retirement, however, did not slow him down-Richard and his wife, Eileen, purchased and operated Bulan’s Boatyard in Vermilion, a marina that reflected both his lifelong love for the water and his entrepreneurial spirit.

A faithful member of St. Mary Catholic Parish and an active figure throughout Vermilion, Richard gave generously of his time and talents. He was a proud member of the Vermilion Boat Club and served on numerous community committees, including the Vermilion Port Authority and the Vermilion Power Squadron. Most notably, he served on the Erie County Board of Health for more than 20 years, contributing to the well-being of local families with unwavering devotion.

Richard is survived by his loving wife of 60 years, Eileen Bulan, of Vermilion; his son, Richard (Lin Xu) Bulan; his daughter, Christy (Dennis) Wilcox; his twin brother, Bob (Robin) Bulan; and his cherished grandchildren, Jack and Peter Bulan, Spencer and Caden Wilcox, and Adina and Alana Guo.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Rudolph and Anna (née Sebechlebsky) Bulan.

The family will receive friends on Saturday, December 20, 2025, from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. in the gathering space at St. Mary Catholic Parish, 731 Exchange Street, Vermilion. A Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 11:00 a.m. Inurnment will be held at Maple Grove Cemetery at a later date.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Vermilion Port Authority or the Erie County Board of Health.

Online condolences may be shared at www.riddlefuneralhome.com

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