Richard J. "Rick" Lenhart

Richard Jerome “Rick” Lenhart, 64, of Wapakoneta passed away peacefully on September 17th, 2024 at the Wapakoneta Manor. Rick was born on April 4th, 1960 in Lima, Ohio to Herman and Clara (Yahl) Lenhart who preceded him in death. He was married to Tonya M. (Schumann) Lenhart for 34 years and she survives. Rick is survived by his beloved children, Collin (Courtney) Lenhart, Kalie Lenhart, Kyle Lenhart, and Keaton Lenhart. He was a loving grandfather to his only grandchild, Asher Lenhart. Rick is also survived by his brother Joe (Judy) Lenhart; sisters, Marlene (Lenhart) Zwiebel and Diana (Lenhart) Kantner; brother-in-law Ralph Stoner and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by sister Mildred (Lenhart) Stoner; brothers-in-law, Fred Kantner and David Zwiebel. Rick was a Wapakoneta High School Class of 1978 graduate and 2012 graduate of Wright State University, earning his Masters degree in Education and Psychology. Rick spent most of his professional career as a carpentry instructor for 17 years at Upper Valley Career Center in Piqua, where he was awarded the OACTE Teacher of the Year honors. He spent time volunteering for St. Joseph Catholic Church through being a lector, usher and confirmation advisor. He liked to practice his carpentry skills through building homes, participating in Servant’s Day with his children, and projects with friends and family. Rick found joy with his lifelong friends through card and poker games, the occasional drink and reminiscing in old stories. Rick was an esteemed storyteller, who never missed an opportunity to fill the room with laughter. Rick's greatest happiness in life was being a father to his four children. He poured his heart and soul into raising them, always putting their needs before his own. Whether cheering from the sidelines at their school sporting events, helping with homework, or simply spending quality time together, Rick treasured every moment with his kids. Rick’s legacy lives on through the love and values he instilled in his children and the cherished memories they will carry forever. Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:30 a.m., Saturday, Sept. 21st, 2024, at the St. Joseph Catholic Church, Wapakoneta, Fr. Sean Wilson officiating. Burial of his cremated remains will follow in the St. John Catholic Cemetery, Fryburg. The family will receive friends from 4-8 p.m., Friday Sept. 20th, and 9-10 a.m., Sat. at the Eley Funeral Home & Crematory, St. Rt. 501, Wapakoneta. Memorial contribution may be directed to The Class of 1978, Celebration of Life Fund. Condolences may be expressed at www.eleyfuneralhomeandcrematory.com

Richard J. "Rick" Lenhart

April 4, 1960 - September 17, 2024