Richard Rupert Obituary
With deepest sorrow, we announce the passing of our beloved father, Richard "Rick" Clyde Rupert, 66, who passed away at home in the early morning hours of July 15, 2025. His children were by his side during his final moments.
Rick was born in Pottstown, PA, to the late Clyde L. Rupert and Ruth Ann (Riley) Skapnit. He was predeceased by his son, Richard "Ricko" L. Rupert, his parents, and his brother, William "Bill" Rupert.
Rick is lovingly remembered by his daughter and son-in-law, Natalie and Michael Ruchinski, and their four children: Kayla, Caleb, Jacob, and Michael; his son and daughter-in-law, Phillip and Jennifer Rupert, and their four children: Nathan, Faith, Layla, and Lydia; his late son Ricko's three children: Cole, Lexi, and Jaxson; his great-grandson, Declan, through his granddaughter Kayla; and his brother, Randy Rupert.
After graduating from Spring-Ford High School, Rick began a 45+ year career in construction, proudly wearing many hats throughout the industry.
Rick had a wide range of hobbies. In his younger years, he could often be found at the local basketball courts, playing basketball. He loved fishing and hunting in the Pocono Mountains, especially at the family cabin, where he shared countless adventures with his dad and three children. A true nature lover, Rick spent much of his time outdoors when his kids were young - playing frisbee golf, target shooting, practicing archery, visiting amusement parks and waterfalls, and hiking at places like Bushkill Falls.
Annual trips to Wildwood, NJ, were a cherished tradition, often shared with his brother Bill and all the kids. Rick was also a passionate football fan - GO EAGLES! - and an avid NASCAR enthusiast, attending many races over the years. One memorable highlight was when he and his son Phillip took part in the "NASCAR Experience" in the Poconos, both reaching speeds of over 170 mph.
Rick was a proud member of the Pottstown German Club, where he stopped in almost daily to have a few beers and catch up with the many friends he made there. He truly enjoyed his time in that community. For several years, he dressed up as Santa Claus for the club's holiday party - a special tradition for all the grandkids, even though they likely knew it was him behind the beard.
Rick loved music of all kinds, but rock was his favorite. He attended many concerts over the years, including The Rolling Stones, Aerosmith, and more. He was also a big supporter of his son-in-law Mike, who played guitar in a former local band, C.I.C.A.D.A. Rick rarely missed a show and knew every one of their songs by heart - often singing along and dancing with his daughter Natalie and his son Ricko.
In the fall, Rick had a tradition of baking homemade pumpkin pies for weeks and sharing them with friends and family.
Years ago, Rick renovated his daughter and son-in-law's first home, working there every evening after finishing his regular job. He stayed late into the night and still got up for work the next morning - doing this for three months straight. Over the years, he continued helping with projects around their home, always eager to lend a hand. His vast knowledge of carpentry taught them many valuable lessons along the way. Rick would do anything he could to help his kids.
In the last few years of his life, Rick endured chronic, severe back pain, at times making it difficult for him to even stand upright, along with the deep emotional pain of losing his son, Ricko. Despite it all, he continued to show up each day for work and for the everyday tasks of life, pushing through.
He will be sorely missed at every holiday dinner, family celebration, by his friends, during every construction project - wondering what his thoughts would have been or how he might have done it - and thought of every single day. We love you so very much, Dad! You'll be in our hearts always.
In lieu of flowers, Rick's cremation and related expenses are being covered by his daughter and son-in-law, as he did not have life insurance or savings. If you feel moved to contribute, donations are deeply appreciated. Please contact Natalie directly for more information. If you need her contact details, you may reach out to the funeral home.
A Celebration of Rick's Life will be held on Saturday, July 26, 2025, from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at the Pottstown German Club, 52 Reynolds Ave., Pottstown, PA 19464. All who knew and loved Rick are invited to join us in sharing memories, laughter, and celebrating his life.
Published by WFMZ-TV 69 News on Jul. 18, 2025.