Ronald Richard "Rick" Riddle, 69, a resident of 289 State Route 428, Oakland Township, died peacefully at 1:50 p.m. Monday, Oct. 23, 2017, in his home, surrounded by his loving family, following a courageous battle with lung cancer. He was born Feb. 26, 1948, in Grove City, a beloved son of Vera Kelly Riddle and the late Ronald L. Riddle.

Rick attended the Valley Grove area schools, where he was a standout high school wrestler. He left high school early to enlist with the U.S. Navy, proudly served his country during the Vietnam War era, and was honorably discharged from active duty Nov. 29, 1972. While serving, he was a member of the U. S. Navy Boxing Team. He worked as a materials handler at Joy Manufacturing Company in Franklin, retiring from there following 34 years of service. He loved dirt track racing and really enjoyed being a part of the Hull Racing Team's Pit Crew, and regularly followed NASCAR racing, as well. He was an avid Pittsburgh Steelers and Pittsburgh Penguins fan and enjoyed bowling and shooting darts with numerous area leagues. He was a member of both the Oil City and Titusville Loyal Order of Moose clubs, and the V.F.W. Club of Titusville.

He is survived by a son, Ryan R. Ziegler, a daughter, Shaina N. Armstrong and husband, Bobby, all of Oakland Township, his mother, Vera Riddle of Franklin; and two sisters, Nancy L. Lindsey and husband, George "Jake," and Kathleen Drozdo and husband, Robert, all of Franklin, and his stepmother, Joyce Riddle, of Franklin; three step-siblings; and many loving aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, extended family members and friends. In addition to his father, he was preceded in death by a grandson, Keaton Lee Armstrong.

A memorial service in celebration of his life will be held in The Church of the Nazarene of Franklin, 393 Pone Lane, with the Reverend David Smith, pastor, officiating. Immediately following the funeral service, full military burial honors will be accorded by the V.E.T.S. Funeral Honor Guard of Franklin. Private family interment will be in Franklin Cemetery.