Rick E. Sult Jr.

Rick E. Sult Jr., age 81, of Elkhart, Indiana, passed away peacefully on February 2, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of laughter, kindness, faith, and love. He was born on January 27, 1945, in Elkhart to Richard and Ardith (Crawford) Sult, who raised him with strong values, a sense of humor, and a love for family that shaped the man he became.

Rick was a gentle soul with a big heart and a spirit that remained young throughout his life. He had an unmistakable presence-soft-spoken yet witty, playful yet deeply thoughtful. One of his greatest joys was laughter. He laughed easily, laughed often, and most of all laughed at himself. Funny movies, clever jokes, and everyday humor delighted him, and he had an incredible ability to make others feel comfortable, seen, and uplifted simply by being himself.

Known for his kindness, warmth, and quick wit, Rick showed his love through humor. Telling jokes, sharing stories, and finding lightness in even the simplest moments were his way of caring for those around him. His humor was never sharp or unkind-it was gentle, welcoming, and full of heart, much like Rick himself. Many remember him as someone who could brighten a room, ease tension, and bring smiles without trying.

Family meant everything to Rick. He deeply loved being together-sharing meals, memories, laughter, and time. Some of his fondest moments were centered around food and tradition. He especially loved the special recipes passed down from his mother and sister, savoring not only the flavors but the memories attached to them. He also enjoyed preparing a few of his own favorite dishes, taking pride in sharing something made with love.

Rick had an adventurous spirit and a deep appreciation for freedom. He loved camping, traveling, bike riding, and being out in nature where he felt most at peace. In his younger years, his adventurous heart led him on an unforgettable journey hitchhiking cross-country from Indiana to San Francisco-a trip that eventually brought him all the way to Hawaii. That sense of wonder, curiosity, and openness to the world stayed with him for the rest of his life.

Music was another great love of Rick's. He appreciated all kinds of music, finding joy and meaning in its rhythms and stories. He also loved old classic movies, returning to them time and again, finding comfort and nostalgia in familiar scenes. Animals held a special place in his heart as well, and his compassion for them reflected the tenderness he carried for all living things.

Above all, Rick loved Jesus. His faith was sincere and steady, guiding the way he lived and loved. He carried a gentle spirit with a childlike presence-humble, trusting, and full of quiet joy. To those closest to him, he was not only family, but a blessing. His life was a testament to kindness, humor, forgiveness, and love. He leaves behind gratitude for a relationship rooted in faith, one where togetherness, loyalty, and shared laughter were gifts from God.

Rick will be remembered for his kindness, his humor, his faith, and his unwavering love for family. He made people laugh, made people feel safe, and made the world a gentler place simply by being in it. He was deeply loved, always a blessing, and will be missed beyond words-but his spirit will live on in every smile, shared joke, and moment of joy inspired by his memory.

Rick was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Richard and Ardith Sult, and his siblings, Carol Jean Kujawski Sult and David Sult.

He is lovingly remembered and survived by his nieces and nephews: Susan Kujawski Quick, Stephen Kujawski, Christine Wooley, and Denise Sult, who will forever carry his memory, his laughter, and his gentle heart with them.

Memorial contributions in Rick's honor may be made to Pet Refuge, 4626 S. Burnett Drive, South Bend, Indiana 46614, a fitting tribute to his lifelong love for animals and compassion for all creatures.

No formal services are planned. Rick will be laid to rest at Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens, 10776 McKinley Highway, Osceola, Indiana 46561.

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