Richard Brent Coffman

Richard “Rick” Brent Coffman, 65, of Danville, Indiana, died Feb. 28, 2022, after a battle with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). Born Aug. 3, 1956, he was the son of the late Starling “Mack” and Phyllis A. Coffman. He was preceded in death by his brother Brad A. Coffman.

While growing up on the southside of Indianapolis, Rick was fortunate to live just a few doors down from his beloved grandparents. He spent a lot time with his grandfather, “Pop,” and his mother often had to call his grandmother to send him home. His love of lakes came from time spent with family at his grandparents’ cabin at Prince’s Lake. He had so many wonderful memories and stories of family gatherings, boating, skiing, swimming, and a favorite activity, catching turtles in the lake. Visits to his family in Kentucky were also special.

Rick graduated from Southport High School in 1974. In 1975, Rick began working at UPS as a part-time package sorter on the midnight shift at the 81st St. Hub. He later moved to the bulk train, which handled heavy and oversized items. He worked 45 years at UPS until his retirement in October 2020. It was at UPS that he met his wife, Kathe Rae. Rick established many friendships at UPS, which were cherished and lifelong.

Working part-time allowed Rick the time to pursue other interests, such as purchasing rental properties, remodeling his Michigan Street house, and continually improving the Danville property. He became quite skilled in remodeling throughout the years, with drywall work his favorite. He loved planning projects, and several became major undertakings. The rental property he owned next to his house on Michigan Street was referred to as the “lemon” for good reason, and after years of frustration Rick decided to tear it down. He and a group of dedicated friends tore that house down piece by piece. Another significant project was filling in the large pond at his home in Danville. This required more than 150 triaxle truckloads delivered in one weekend.

His projects involved hard work, but when done for the day, it was time to party. While some of his dream projects did not come to fruition, he had some impressive accomplishments. Additionally, he was always willing to lend a helping hand to friends and family with whatever was needed.

Rick enjoyed traveling; however, his lake trips to Lake Monroe near Bloomington and Dale Hollow in Tennessee were his favorites. Whether staying in a cabin with Kathe and another couple, or on a houseboat with the guys, Rick loved the water. He owned several boats, with the 1983 Century cuddy cabin his pride and joy. He was an excellent water skier and helped many people learn to ski. For Rick, few things were better than floating in a lake with a cold Budweiser.

Rick was most happy when he was outside, no matter extreme temperatures. He liked to camp, especially in the winter when he enjoyed building a big fire and cooking over it, ice fishing and sleeping in a tent with temperatures below freezing. He even he had a few hardy friends who were willing to brave the cold with him.

He also liked being outside in the heat of summer. Gardening was another of his passions. Several years ago, he built raised beds, which made garden maintenance and harvesting much easier. He loved to can, and some of his peppers and pickles probably could have won a competition for hottest. It pleased Rick to share the fresh or canned vegetables.

When Rick was diagnosed with ALS, his legion of family and friends rallied around him. Kathe would like to express appreciation for the outpouring of love and support given by them throughout this challenging journey.

Rick is survived by his wife, Kathe Rae; brother-in-law Steven Rae (Donna); and many cousins and their families.

A private graveside service will occur. A celebration of life reception will occur at a later date.