Rick Putchel

With deep love and respect, we announce the passing of Rick Putchel, age 70, on Wednesday, December 4th, 2024. A devoted father, papa, brother, son, and friend, Rick lived a life filled with joy, love, and laughter. His legacy will continue to shine brightly through the countless lives he touched.

Rick’s greatest pride and joy were his children and grandchildren, who carry his spirit forward. He is survived by his children: Kelly (Nick), Nicole (Andy), and Corey (Lee), as well as his cherished grandchildren: Halle, Macy, Regis, Emilia, Jackson, Theodore, Everly, and Charlotte.

Rick is survived by his former spouse, Lori, and his companion, Michelle, who both played vital roles in his life. We are deeply grateful for their unwavering care, support, and love, which were a constant source of strength for Rick.

Rick is also survived by many cherished family members, including sisters-in-law, brother-in-law, nephews, nieces, and numerous cousins. Celebrating a joyful reunion, Rick is reunited with his parents, Henry and Lorraine, his beloved brother and best friend, Bill, and his brother, Jim. Rick’s love, laughter, and strength will remain in the hearts of all who knew him, and his memory will live on forever in the stories, smiles, and love he leaves behind.

Rick grew up in West Allis, WI, born to Henry and Lorraine. Rick could often be found causing trouble with his two older brothers, Bill and Jim. After graduating, Rick started a career in the trucking industry and worked at a handful of companies, finally retiring from E.H. Wolf & Sons in 2020. Upon retiring, Rick was able to work part-time at a local golf course, a place he could’ve spent every day if he had the chance.

In his free time, Rick could almost always be found on the golf course, in a bowling alley, or perched in his tree stand. He had a deep love for music and singing, and it was never unusual to hear him singing along with his favorite tunes, whether it was in the car, at home, or with family and friends. When he wasn’t engaged in these activities, Rick could be found tackling endless house projects—both his own and those for his children—or cheering from the sidelines at his children’s or grandchildren’s sporting events. Above all, Rick cherished time with his family as he watched his children and grandchildren grow up.

Rick will always be remembered for the way he made others feel. His laughter and sense of humor could brighten any situation, leaving it lighter and happier than before. Though we deeply mourn his loss, we take comfort in the remarkable life he lived—a life full of purpose, love, and joy that touched everyone around him. Rick gave his all to those he cared about, leaving an inerasable mark on our hearts. While his physical presence is no longer with us, his spirit, laughter, and love will continue to guide and comfort us. His legacy of kindness and a life well-lived will forever remain a part of who we are, and we are all fortunate to have experienced life and laughter the way Rick did.

A Celebration of Life will be scheduled in Spring and more details will come at a later date.

Organ donation became an integral part of Rick’s life as well as many members of his family, so the family established a donation fund to the TransplantFirst Academy to honor Rick’s memory.