Rick was born in Paola, Kansas on December 4, 1947. He was a faithful, joyful Christian man whose life reflected his love of Jesus in every way. His highest goals were to serve God, others, country, and most of all, his beloved wife of 50 years, Diane (Kettler). His earthly work concluded October 11, 2026.
His early years were spent in a small rural German Lutheran community, attending the local church school. While in college, he studied German through the ROTC program serving the U.S. Army for 21 years throughout the United States and Germany.
As an avid outdoorsman he loved hunting and fishing sharing those interests, especially with younger people.
Rick was an excellent lay leader wherever he lived whether in small groups, church, family, or community. He cared for others well. He was always intentional in including Jesus in everything he did, studying God’s word and applying it to his life.
After retirement from the Army, Rick had a second full career in the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod World Missions in development and program management, based in St. Louis, Missouri. This brought him wonderful new opportunities for extensive travel while sharing God’s work worldwide.
Diane and Rick loved traveling. Throughout their life together they sought out new places to experience and served on mission trips worldwide 10 times. They visited more than 100 countries. It was a rich life in every way.
While Progressive Supranuclear Palsy dramatically changed his life in 2022, by God’s grace he was content and never complained, relying on God’s provision. He found great pleasure sitting on the patio feeling a breeze and listening to birds.
Rick is survived by his wife, Diane. He was preceded in death by his parents, Erhart and Mildred (Grother). His brothers Larry, LeRoy, and Roger, along with many, many others, will miss him greatly.
SERVICES: Visitation at The Lutheran Church of Webster Gardens (8749 Watson Road Webster Groves, Missouri 63119) on Thursday, October 15, 12:00 noon until funeral service at 1:00 p.m. Burial services will be held at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery on Monday, October 19th. Please meet at the Sylvan Springs Park parking lot at 11:15 a.m. for an 11:30 a.m. roadside service with full military honors.
In lieu of flowers, contributions to The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod P.O. Box 66861 St. Louis, MO 63166-9810 (In the memo line, write International Mission) or Webster Gardens Mission Scholarships 8749 Watson Road St. Louis, MO 63119 would be appreciated.
Look forward to seeing you dear friend, you will always have a special place in my heart!
Old missionary Gary moo
Oh Rick, what a stellar Christian example you have been to all of us and countless others. You always had the best smile and kindest heart and you and Diane have pleased God with the way you have run the Christian race. We love you and Diane we love you and pray for comfort and peace and wonderful memories. Cousins Dan and Tracee
The love and kindness you had for everyone around you won’t be forgotten
My thoughts and prayers go out to you Diane ! Rick was a great person and he truly served God ! I appreciate all the times he helped out my children and I in need ! He will be truly missed !
Our fondest memories of Rick are the time spent visiting with him at Flinsbaugh family reunions (Diane’s family). Rick was a good listener with a wonderful smile, a dry sense of humor and an obviously kind heart. He was always very interesting and fun to talk with.
Rick and Diane have lived their lives together as true Christian’s, setting an example for everyone they met.
God speed Rick. Cousins Don & Carol
Diane, Leroy, Larry and Roger, I am sorry to hear about Richard. What peace and joy he must have now being in Heaven with Jesus! My sympathies go out to you all. With friendship, Brenda
I’m so very sorry Rick passed before my son could see him, and I could say goodbye. I’m sad for Diane and everyone I know. Rick was one of the most amazing person I have ever known.