Richard Edgar Ingerick

Richard Edgar Ingerick 

June 15, 1933 – October 19, 2024

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Richard "Dick" Edgar Ingerick, a beloved husband, father, and friend, who left us peacefully on the morning of October 19, 2024. He was 91 years old and passed away at his home in Lebanon. Richard was the first of three children born to Mac and Martha Ingerick on June 15th, 1933 in Canton, PA. He was preceded in death by his younger siblings, Beverly Moore (1934 – 2022), and Ronald Ingerick (1940 – 2016). 

As a lifelong scholar, Dick's love for learning was truly inspiring. His interests were wide-ranging, covering literature, music, science, and history. He had a special passion for U.S. military history, particularly the Civil War and the Battle of Gettysburg, where he was locally recognized as an expert. But beneath his impressive intellect, Dick had a kind heart, deeply devoted to his family and close friends. As a true Renaissance man, he combined his desire for knowledge with strong, meaningful relationships.

 Richard grew up in rural Tioga County before his family relocated to St. Petersburg, Florida, during his middle school years. He graduated from high school there in 1952. Following that, Dick attended Duke University in Durham, NC, where he cultivated his "work hard, play hard" philosophy, balancing his studies with a bit of mischief. Despite financial struggles that forced him to abandon his pre-med studies, Richard successfully earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Chemistry in 1956. 

Richard's career included both corporate roles and entrepreneurial ventures. He began his career at DuPont and later became General Manager of the Polymer Corporation in Reading, during the 1970s. His entrepreneurial spirit soon took over, driving him to invest and start his own businesses, with the most notable being the Dutch Maid convenience store, gas station, and car wash complex in Shoemakersville.

 Richard had a passion for history, but he was also a skilled musician and music lover. In high school and college, he played the saxophone, and his enthusiasm for music never wavered. When he retired, Richard took on a new challenge. He decided to learn the tuba, with the goal of joining Reading, PA’s renowned Ringgold Band*. Between 2000 and 2008, he succeeded, finding joy in the Band's performances and bonding with his fellow Ringgold musicians.

 Richard's curiosity was insatiable, and it defined him. His library, brimming with books on every subject, was a hub for lively discussions. He delighted in sharing stories, insights, and theories with family and friends, often sparking intellectual debates. At heart, Richard was a nonconformist who inspired others to challenge the status quo, reject intolerance, and explore new ideas. Those who knew him well describe him as “a sharp man,” "a kind man," “a great man,” and "a real character” – all fitting descriptors. His openness and inquisitive nature will undoubtedly be his greatest legacy. Even in his twilight years, Dick encouraged everyone to follow his lead – go out, explore, and broaden your horizons.

Richard is survived by his loving wife, Kim; three daughters, Peggy Hughes, Patricia Ingerick, and Ling Marquardt; two stepdaughters, Helen Najarian and Irene Babcock; and six grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. 

Funeral services for Richard will be private and at the convenience of the family. Buch Funeral Home, Manheim in charge of arrangements.