Richard "Joe" Archer

Richard “Joe” Archer, 89, of Carp Lake, Michigan, passed away peacefully on July 19, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family. 

Joe was born on July 1, 1936, in Detroit, Michigan, to the late Norman and Mary (Flynn) Archer. He lived a life defined by faith and quiet strength. A man of few words and large stature, Joe provided a steady protective presence.  Joe made a lasting impact, not through what he said, but through how he lived—calm, faithful, hardworking, and devoted to his family. 

Those closest to him describe Joe as a no-nonsense man who found joy in life’s simplest pleasures. He disliked pride and materialism and found fulfillment in the ordinary: a slow drive with AM950 on the radio, watching thunderstorms from the garage, the methodical making of his delicious Saturday morning egg salad sandwiches. His quiet way taught others that stillness is not something to fix, but something to cherish. 

Joe met the love of his life, Julia, at a party in downtown Detroit—a chance encounter that changed both of their lives. Julia hadn’t planned on going, but a friend persuaded her. That night, a fated premonition told her to look at the closed door, and when she did, Joe walked through—and everything changed. They married five years later, on November 28, 1964, at St. Mary’s of Redford. For 61 years, they were faithful companions.  They honored their love with many date night dinners of whitefish and Southern Comfort Manhattans. 

Together, they raised their five children with love and purpose. Joe loved being a father, above all else. Big Joe’s “Bear Hugs” became a source of comfort, protection, and unspoken reassurance. He brought his family the love of nature – his true sanctuary and instilled in them the sense of calm that guided his life. He taught his children all his favorite outdoor activities, from hunting, skiing, and golfing, to enjoying the quiet woods on long walks, taking the boat out on the lake, and enjoying the tranquility of fishing. He connected deeply with the peace rooted in the natural world. 

The family cherished time at their cabin up north, especially the 4th of July summer celebrations. Joe’s birthday each year would kick off a week of Fourth of July fireworks, boat rides, outdoor adventures, and long summer evenings that became lifelong memories for his kids and grandkids alike. 

Joe found spirituality to be in nature. He passed on that reverence to his family, forging lifelong bonds through time spent outdoors. His Catholic faith was a strong pillar in his life. He was educated in the Jesuit tradition, first at University of Detroit Jesuit High School, and later at John Carroll University in Cleveland, Ohio. Joe and Julia were regulars at Mass in both Michigan and Florida parishes, and Joe found fulfillment in teaching catechism at St. Rene Goupil Parish in Sterling Heights. 

Joe spent 40 years as President and Owner of Archer Record Pressing Co., Inc.  in Detroit, MI. Joe’s strong work ethic was demonstrated to his family by working six days a week without complaint. Succeeded by his father Norman, Joe passed the torch to his oldest son Michael, and the 3rd generation company continues with a stellar reputation. 

Joe is survived by his beloved wife, Julia; his children, Michael (Karin) Archer, Joseph (Christina) Archer, Sheila (James) Birley, Kevin (Dina) Archer, and Catherine (Byron) Pink; and his cherished grandchildren: Ryan, Daniel, Evan, Ian, Clare, Ashley, Emily, Kiley, Joseph, Fiona, and Connor. He is also remembered fondly by many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, Norman and Mary Archer; his brother and sister-in-law, Bernard (Marie) Archer; and his sister and brother-in-law, Shirley (Harold) Webber. 

In lieu of flowers, the family asks for prayers. Flowers may fade, but prayers remain with us. Messages of support or favorite memories of Joe may be shared here on this obituary page, on the Tribute Wall. 

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Richard "Joe" Archer, please visit our floral store.