Richard "Rick" Ekey

Richard "Rick" Ekey, aged 87, passed away unexpectedly on February 27, 2025.
Rick was a devoted husband to Carol for 11 years and the cherished father of Beth Moomaw, Debi (Jeff) Coppola, Shelly (the late Michael) Zurowski, and many "other daughters." He was a proud Bop to Lexie, Brendan (fiancée Olivia), Brett, David (Danielle), Justin (Taylor), Jeremy, Kelly, and Alex, and a beloved great-grandfather to Danika and Dakota. He is preceded in death by his first wife, Sharon, and his brother Glen and sister-in-law Marilyn Ekey.
Rick's career at General Motors spanned 35 years, where he worked as a journeyman metal model maker before retiring as a senior contact engineer. A proud veteran, Rick honorably served in the Air National Guard for seven years and remained dedicated to his fellow servicemen as an active member of the American Legion Post #4.
Rick had a vast social network and loved being around people. He was known for his quick wit and was always prepared with the perfect quip for any situation. Rick was a devout Detroit Lions fan and never wavered in his loyalty, regardless of the season's predictable outcome. During the summer months, you could find Rick in Lexington, MI, at the pool, partying at the clubhouse with friends, or eating Wimpy's burgers with extra grilled onions.
Rick spent the majority of his retirement years in Las Vegas, NV, enjoying the fun and sun of Sin City. If Rick wasn't at home watching his quail and watering his "rock lawn," he could frequently be found playing video poker at the casinos, golfing, or hosting friends and family in the sunny city he loved so much. At 62, Rick's years of playing golf resulted in the achievement of his life-long dream of a hole-in-one at Eagle Crest Golf Course.
His strong passion for the Lions, Las Vegas, and golf were eclipsed only by his love for his family. After 30 years in Las Vegas, he spent his final three years in Michigan surrounded by family and friends.
Above all, Rick will be remembered as a loving and devoted husband, father, and grandfather. Rick was a man whose kindness, wisdom, and unwavering support made him, in the words of his daughters, "the Best Dad ever."
Rick will be deeply missed and forever loved.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are appreciated to Tunnel to Towers or the National Kidney Foundation.