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Rick Fox Obituary
He met the love of his life and married Patty in 1973, and the two accepted Christ as their Lord and Savior in 1978 under the ministry of Bro. Bobby Toler.
He attended Bible College and graduated with honors in 1987. After graduation, he pastored a church in Michigan for over eight years before being called to the First Baptist Church of Kenmore in 1996, and the congregation he often referred to as "the best bunch of folks a man could ever hope to pastor."
The last few months have been some of the best at First Baptist Church, with well-attended services, souls saved, and many following the Lord in believer's baptism. His voice could also be heard on the "Sowing the Seed" Radio Broadcast which aired on over 21 stations nationwide and reached well over 18 million souls each week.
Pastor Fox led the way to Glory and is now waiting for his beloved wife, Patty; his son, Aaron; and daughter, Jill (David) Conley; two grandchildren, Michael and Kaitlyn Conley; a brother, Greg (Lois) Fox from Stoutsville, Ohio, their children; William Anthony (Amanda) Fox and Stacy (Jack) Romine; sister, Pamela (Terry) Jude of Crites, West Virginia, their children, Tara Lester, Becky Jude and Beth Jude and his aunt, Betty (Goble) Branham from Stoutsville, Ohio.
Preacher lived the words of one his favorite songs - the last song he ever heard - "If I have no more blessings in store, I'll never ask or wonder why. If I died today, I can honestly say, I've had a wonderful life."
Homegoing service will be held Saturday, February 16, at 10 a.m. at First Baptist Church of Kenmore, 2330 East Ave., Akron. Family will receive friends Friday from 5 to 8 p.m. at the CATAVOLOS FUNERAL HOME, 3653 W. Market St., Fairlawn. Burial will be at Greenwood Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions be made in honor of Pastor Fox to: First Baptist Church of Kenmore, 2330 East Ave., Akron, OH 44314, to continue on his legacy of dedication with Helping Today's Families Build on a Firm Foundation. For online tributes and condolences please visit www.catavolosfuneralhome.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Rick Fox
Christy Patten
January 28, 2025
I was so blessed to call Pastor Fox my pastor for many years at Landmark Baptist. I have carried his sermons with me my entire life. Love and condolences to Patty, Aaron and Jill.
Joseph Grimaldi iii
March 10, 2014
Praying you and family
January 24, 2014
Always in my thoughts
Darmi Mullens Nwanedoh
May 12, 2013
I just found out that pastor fox has passed away he and his wife was very special to me
March 25, 2013
Dear Patty, My deepest sympathy goes out to you. He's with The Lord now and made whole. Dave wants to let you know that your family is in our prayers!
We just found out from your son's newsfeed about the sad news. Some day we will be in heaven, and we'll have a good time. Love and Prayers, Dave, Charlene, Nancy & Jon
March 11, 2013
Dr.Fox Family
I Will Keep You Guys And My Prayers.
Brian Stephens
February 26, 2013
Dear Fox Family
I was shocked to hear of the passing of Pastor Fox. Had I heard of it before the Homegoing Service I would have paid my respects. Know that my prayers are with you in this time of grief.
Ken and Shirley Kaforey
February 25, 2013
Pastor Fox preached the gospel from his heart and God used him to reach many in our area, as well as across the US and around the world through the radio and internet. In 2008, we joined First Baptist Church of Kenmore and have felt truly blessed and privileged to have him as our pastor. We will never forget his great preaching, his humor, and the friendship he showed to everyone at First Baptist, where he is greatly missed. We continue to pray for Patty, Aaron, Jill, Dave, Michael, and Kaitlyn.
February 24, 2013
Patty, Aaron and Jill I am so sorry for your loss. I met all of you in 1985 when the College used to come get us at the Great Lakes Naval base. I spent quite a few nights at your house and attending church with your family. I acccepted the lord and was baptised while with you, I still have the Bible that Rick gave to me on that day. He will be missed by many. But I know he is with the Lord he loved so much. My prayers are with you and your family.
David Jones
Amanda Nash
February 19, 2013
Dear Mr. Fox & family,
I know you are in heaven now with god and he is so proud of you and all you did for everyone and how you spread the word. I am from the Nash family my mom and grandparents the kemps went there for so long i went there since i was a baby and I loved that church was like home. You had such a way with your messages Mr. Fox I know your watching over your family now you are a angel in heaven we miss you. For his family I am sorry for your loss and my prayers are with you all much love.
Amanda Nash
Deborah Keeling
February 18, 2013
Dear Patty, Aaron, Jill,and Family,
You all have been in my thoughts and prayers scince I first heard about Bro. Rick.
Some people come into our lives for a moment and leave footprints on our hearts that last for a life time! That was Pastor Fox!
My life was blessed the day I got to call him Pastor!
I love you all dearly and my heart breaks for you all.
Love, Always and Forever,
Chris Richter
February 18, 2013
Dear Patty,Aaron, Jill and family, Our hearts hurt so much for you!! Bro. Rick was such an inspiration to all who came in contact with him. Surely, Jesus shone through him. We are praying for you all during this most difficult time!
Mike & Chris Richter
Fircrest, WA
Rebekkah
February 17, 2013
I don't think FBC will ever be the same without the humor and enlightenment he gave so willingly. I'm sorry for your loss.
February 16, 2013
We are so privileged to be able to call Rick Fox our pastor. Pastor was always busy for the Lord, yet he never failed to take time to help us and others. We are on the foreign mission field today because of his help, guidance and prayers. He was always such an encouragement to our family. As we traveled on deputation to many churches across America, so many people shared of the impact Pastor Fox & Patty had made in their lives. Whenever I would contact Pastor for a prayer request, he would tell me he prayed for us and others early every morning. Our pastor was so humble yet truly a great man of God. We miss him so very much but what a gain for Heaven. Patty, Jill, Aaron & Family - you all are a blessing to us. We miss you. Our hearts and prayers are with you all.
Mike & Mary Wallace and Family
Missionaries in Mexico City
Sue Grace
February 16, 2013
Patty, I am so sorry to hear about Rick. I have so many fond memories of both you and him. You were such a vital part of my life during our school days and I will always remember you fondly. You were like the sister I never had. May God bless you in this time of loss. Please know that you are always in my heart and in my prayers. I love you. Sue (Jude) Grace
February 16, 2013
Psalm 116:15 Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his saints. I was so very sorry to hear of your loss. I took my son to Tri County Emer. in Hartville today and found that someone had left tracts from your church. I've never visited your church, but listened to an online sermon. What a Blessing. May God Bless You and your family.
Bill & Cindy Coon
February 16, 2013
My heart goes out to Patty, Aaron & Jill. We will never ever forget the years that we got to spend with your family at Landmark. The bond was deep. Our prayers go out to you guys.
Suzie (Johnson)Cunningham
February 15, 2013
Patty, Jill and Aaron It still is hard to believe Preacher is gone. He touched my heart and was a good support for me as I raised my family. Patty I just want you to know you and the kids will be in my thoughts and prayers. I am glad you have a good church family to support and comfort you. God Bless...
Viola Gaugler
February 15, 2013
Thank You Pastor Fox for helping me believe again.God be with Patty and bless her through this rough time.Viola Gaugler
Jerry Copley
February 15, 2013
Hey Sis, I cant seem to find words to let you know how truely sorry I am. Ric was Thee Best Brother-in-Law and Friend. I know that you both truely loved God. My heart is broke and sometimes still in shock but I do know that Ric is happy that he is home with God...Patty I do love you so very much and if you ever need me just let me know..I will keep u all in my prayers...Love you always Patty....
Rochelle (Cooper) Brownfield
February 15, 2013
Preacher's Death leaves.. a heartache no one can heal.. His Love he had for others.. leaves memories no one can steal ! I'm so glad you was a part of my life.
Beth Carpenter Ruggiero
February 15, 2013
Preacher Fox will always be one of the greatest men I've ever known. He was always kind, caring and he preached the gospel with truth,urgency and practicality. He spoke simple enough for a child to understand, yet compelling enough for an adult with ADD to understand. He always made me want to be a better christian, wife and friend. Even though I've moved and he hasn't been my Pastor for several years, so many of his words and sermons still impact my life. He even made it possible for my daughter to attend First Baptist Academy, which I will never forget. My heart goes out to Patty, Jill, Aaron and all of First Baptist Church of Kenmore for the huge void. I can visualize Preacher in Heaven doing that funny side kick with both legs and yelling "Glory to God!" Yes, he's excited, alright!
Cliff & Mary Whitenburg
February 15, 2013
Dear Patty
The impact that you and Bro Rick made on so many lives will not be fully known this side of Glory. He was a gentle giant that always spoke the truth in love sincerely caring about others. His influence on our lives is inestimable. From our vantage point he left too soon but in his short time here he left behind a great host of witnesses that testifies of his close walk with God and love for his Saviour.
Rodeway Inn, Staff & Management
February 15, 2013
Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Aaron Fox
February 15, 2013
Mom, Jill and I read through these comments this morning, and we really appreciate your kind words. Mom says she loves each and every one of you.
Mark Roberts
February 15, 2013
Prayers to Patty and family and for the church family. Preacher you was a dear friend and mentor to me and pointed me to Jesus. You told me Jesus don't have the answer Mark He is the answer. What a statement and change that made in my life and my family. I know with out a doubt you helped save my life and marriage through your love for Christ and sacrifices you made for others. Thank you, I love you and know I will see you again in glory.
anna westfall
February 14, 2013
Dear Patty: I want you to know how much my Mom(Norma Jean Burwell) has loved Preacher as her preacher. Thru all of Mom's medical issues in the last few years, you and he always called on her. Kenmore Baptist is Mom's second home. She loved how he stayed on top of current events and what the Bible had to say about each situation. Now as he is in Heaven with GOD he will have a ringside seat as to how this old world will turn out. May the peace of GOD surround you at this time. Anna (Burwell) Westfall
Pastor Paul Richardson
February 14, 2013
The people at Great Faith Baptist Church in Michigan City, Indiana are saddened at the news of Pastor Fox's homegoing this past week. Please know that we are rejoicing for Heaven, but praying for comfort for his dear wife, children, grand children and church family at this time. May God bless each one of you. ~ Pastor Paul and Jenny Richardson
February 14, 2013
our thoughts and prayers are with the family. friends of our pastor-paster william moore. jack and barbara tarle
Ron Lanham
February 14, 2013
Turning Point Baptist Church was saddened by the news that Pastor Rick Fox had passed. "Absent from the body PRESENT with the Lord" Great men of God are hard to find and he was a rare find. Our thoughts, prayers and emotional support go out to the Fox family and the church family. Pastor Ron Lanham, Turning Point Baptist Church and Basketball Team.
jim neeley
February 14, 2013
soon after i received christ as saviour, preacher became the pastor of my home church in flint michigan, i had the great opportunity to sit under his preaching for 8 1/2 years , i grew so much in the lord and became a better christian and closer to god. thank you preacher for all u did for me and my family. now you are with the one you preached about for so long, as you used to say. "if you wake up one day and read rick fox went to be with lord, click your heels and shout, because ill never die, ill be with jesus on that day"
February 14, 2013
We learned so much from the ministry of Pastor Rick Fox at First Baptist Church of Kenmore. He was a true man of God setting the example of Christ through his humility, his giving heart, his forgiving nature and his loving spirit. We are praying for Patty as well as Aaron and Jill and Michael and Katelyn as they grieve and adjust to life without this great patriarch who will be sorely missed. May we all strive to be the example he set and remain faithful to the end. Until we meet again, Preacher....We love you! ~Ron, Barb and Kelsey Brooks
David Berger
February 14, 2013
Our family was very sad to here of your loss. You are in our thoughts and prayers. Bro. Fox was a great influence in the lives of many people. May the Lord give you grace during this difficult time. God bless your family. The Bergers.
Jen Kline
February 14, 2013
Pastor Fox was a great preacher. He never made me or my family feel like an outcast, even though we did not come to church as often as we should have, he always welcomed us with open arms. I am shocked that he was called to heaven so early, but clearly god had a plan for him up there. My condolences to his wife Party and their children.
February 14, 2013
He preached with honesty, humor and humility. He had our hearts because Jesus had his. We love you and yours. Lee and Pam Wallace (Town Creek, AL)
Richard Spears
February 14, 2013
Dear Fox Family and Church Friends,
I am saddened by the loss of a great man of God and my heart goes out to Patty, the children, grand children and extended family. Rick and I are cousins and although we may not have had many times together I do cherish the times we had and his words of wisdom were inspirational to me. I pray the peace of God over you during this most difficult time. With Love.
Vicki Copley
February 14, 2013
Pastor Fox and Patty were more then my customers at the West Salem Post Office during the time I was Postmaster there, they were dear friends. Patty, as you have told me so many times, God has a plan. Pastor Bruce and I are praying for you and your children during this difficult time. God bless you.
judy meade
February 14, 2013
very good man my dad Clarence Meade just loved him God Bless the family
Kim and Jeremy Beaver
February 14, 2013
Patty I am so sorry for your loss . He was a great man and preacher and opened my eyes. Rest in peace preacher Fox you will be missed by many.
DALE & KIMBERLY ABBOTT
February 14, 2013
Dear Patty & Family
We are so sorry to hear about Preacher, just know that he is finally walking on the streets of Glory that he always preached about as well as fishing near the river, He was a very influential man and touched many lives here, You're all in our prayers and we pray that God will give you the comfort that you need in the next few days, weeks and months as you go about the fathers business, God has a plan for you and the church just seek it out and know that this is not goodbye but see you soon.
In God's Grace
Beverly Mohat
February 14, 2013
Our church, Lighthouse Baptist in Cincinnati was saddened by the news of Bro Fox. We have been grateful for his prayers, support, and mentoring of our pastor, Pastor Lang. Our hearts are knit with yours at this time. We will be praying for the family and for the church in these coming days.
Katie Miller
February 14, 2013
When I was newly single and really struggling, the church took me under their wings and really nurtured me. Bro Fox was a big part of that. He gave me the Biblical 'back bone' I needed to get my life right. He was a blessing to all he ever met.
Autumn Futrell
February 14, 2013
I am truly sorry to learn of the passing of Pastor Fox. He got my Sunday morning worship started as I listened to his program on my way to church. I will miss his no-nonsense approach to the Word of God. My condolences to his family and congregation.
Dory Cooper
February 14, 2013
Preacher Fox, You had a big impact on many people here in Michigan. You still are in our thoughts always as we follow the lord. Thank you for being in my life. We truly had lots of fun at camp where we became a family in the lord.
JoDee Blakney
February 14, 2013
I am so thankful to have known a preacher like Dr Fox and the lessons he taught us. We will see him again, though he will be greatly missed until that day. My prayers to Patty, Aaron & Jill.
Stacy Fox Romine
February 14, 2013
Uncle Ricky will live in our memories forever. I know he would want us to see the Glory of God and Heaven as he see's it now. He is greatly loved and we will miss him.
Joseph Thornton
February 14, 2013
A prayer for your family in this time,
My sister and brother-inlaw goes to your church,(Jan-Mike Pertee)they would have us come to Faimly Fun night and the pastor and myself was on a team together for ping pong and no one could beat us. We did not know him very well but he always made us feel welcome when we came to church.
May God comfort all of your hearts.
The Thornton's
JOHN STEFANKO
February 14, 2013
PASTOR OFTEN SAID THAT 1 DAY HE WOULD STEP OUT OF HIS EARTHLY BODY AND STEP INTO GLORY AND KEEP RIGHT ON LIVING. HE IS A GREAT PASTOR AND A GREAT FRIEND. I LOVED HIM LIKE A BROTHER AND WILL MISS HIM SO MUCH.
Steven Miller
February 13, 2013
Words cannot describe the impact that Preacher has had on me and my family. I am blessed to have been able to call him my Pastor, mentor, and friend.
Greg Fox
February 13, 2013
Pastor Rick Fox will live in our memories and with Jesus eternally. We look forward to rejoicing with him again in heaven with our Lord Jesus. We will miss his humor and love for lost people on the earth. Go well my brother.
Nancy Lemon
February 13, 2013
Wishing patty and the family the perfect peace of Christ. I remember him from junior high and high school. He was one of my first little sweethearts. I know he will be missed by his sister Pam, nieces, other family members, friends
Elaine Thomas
February 13, 2013
Thank you Preacher for all of your teaching,preaching and love. You were my first Preacher and will always be the BEST! You are sadly missed and I know one day I will see you again in Glory..
We are praying for you all!
Sam & Rose Shepherd
February 13, 2013
We have been so saddened by the news of Br. Fox's homegoing! Much in prayer for Patty and the rest of the family and church family. Sam mentioned that Br. Fox used to call him "little buddy" when they were at HAC together and working in the Great Lakes Sailor Ministry. Many precious memories of you dear folks. God be with you. Love & Prayers from Sam & Rose Shepherd
Bill Bradley
February 13, 2013
A great preacher, pastor, man of God, and friend. Thank you, Brother Fox, for your testimony for the Lord, your faithful service to Him, and for your friendship to me and my family. Miss Patty, we love you and we are praying for you.
Mary Ayer
February 13, 2013
Heaven gained a lot but we also lost a lot. An impression has been forever made in our hearts, minds and souls. Thank you Preacher. We love you. Mary and Eric Ayer
February 13, 2013
Thank you Pastor Fox for not giving up on me and my family and showing us the road that God had planned for us to follow.I especialy will always remember and never forget the times you and me worked on so many church projects together and our talks at Landmark. You had a major role evan today in my family's service for God. Thank's for not giving up on an old biker! You'll be missed!! Stiff family
February 13, 2013
From the first time Bro. Edwards brought Bro. Fox to hunt and preach here in southern Illinois we fell in love with him. He became very dear to our family and church family. We will miss him greatly. We are all praying for your family and church family during this time. We love you...Pastors Mark and Charles Hiltibidal and Grace Baptist Church, Raleigh, IL
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