In Memory
Richard Dean Metz
1974 - 2021
Richard "Rich" Dean Metz, 46, of Elkhart, Indiana, passed away unexpectedly July 7, 2021 at Saint Joseph Regional Medical Center in Mishawaka, IN.
He was born in Charlotte, Michigan on November 22, 1974 to Linda (Thompson) Mercado. Later, he and his sister, Rachel Metz, were adopted by Colleen (deceased) and Gerry Metz where they were raised in Niles, Michigan. Years later, Colleen remarried to Aaron Six (significant other, Jackie Hattenbach) of whom continued a close relationship throughout Rich's life.
Rich went on to graduate from Washington High School, South Bend, and began a career as a delivery driver in the food industry. He also worked as a computer programmer and most recently in the RV industry as an electrician. Building friendships was easy for Rich due to his kind and generous spirit. He loved to help others and did so by donating to local food kitchens, Toys for Tots and also volunteering at the Niles City Fire Department. Rich had a great work ethic and loved projects that were interactive. He was tenacious and had an uncanny ability to figure out any task at hand.
Rich was adventurous and easy going, always willing to try new things and loved to learn. His interests varied; hot pepper competitions with his son, karaoke, boating, kayaking, RC sports, fireworks, technology, traveling, midnight snacks, and country music; but mostly he found joy in anything that included family and friends.
Rich is survived by his former wife, Heather Price-Saltzman and their two children, Kaytlyn and Dakota Metz; and newly born grandson, Killian McGrath. Other bereaved family and friends include sister, Rachel Metz; half-sister, Stormy Davis; life-long friend, Ben Engleberg; significant other, Robin Ravenscroft; and her two children, Elleann and Nicholas Griffin.
He will be fondly remembered and sorely missed.
The family will be holding A Celebration of Life to be planned at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Faith Mission of Elkhart, 801 Benham Ave, Elkhart, Indiana. Arrangements have been entrusted to Hoven Funeral Home, Buchanan, Michigan. Online condolences may be made at www.hovenfunerals.com.
03/23/2024 EJS
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