Richard W. Zeller Sr.

Richard W. Zeller, Sr. passed away on Friday, October 12, 2025 at his longtime home in Covington, LA. Rick lived an accomplished life marked by quiet strength and a calm demeanor. Born in San Francisco, his lifetime included being an orphan, a runaway, a working cowboy on a ranch, and a professional bull rider who competed with acclaim on the West Coast rodeo circuit. After he served in the U.S. Navy as a diver, Rick traveled the world, owned multiple motorcycles and exotic cars, as well as a vineyard that provided high-quality grapes to commercial wineries. While he would reflect on experiences with bears, mountain lions, parachutes and underwater demolitions, raising a family was his proudest achievement following his fractured childhood. His focus was being a devoted husband to Lois for over 55 years. She was a retired St. Tammany Parish teacher who preceded him in death in 2024. Rick's career was in sales, and work relocated his young family from Hawaii to Louisiana. A consequence was Rick being reminded daily for years by Lois of the sudden move from an island home to New Orleans. They settled in Covington several decades ago. The couple spent their retirement visiting points in all 50 states and volunteering locally. His abundance of quotes and independent nature is enmeshed in the fabric of his family. Rick is survived by his son, Richard Zeller, Jr., daughter, Renee Kenney Williams, and eight grandchildren: Katherine Zeller, Abigail Zeller, William Richard Zeller, Jack Kenney, Kearsten Kenney, Noah Kenney, Sophie Williams and Max Williams. Rick is remembered for the stories he shared, lessons passed down, and a life well lived. Relatives and friends are invited to attend the Memorial Mass at E.J. Fielding Funeral Home, 2260 W 21st Ave., Covington LA, on Tuesday November 25, 2025, at 11:00 AM with visitation beginning at 9:00 AM until service time.