Richard Allison Ploor

Richard Allison Ploor, beloved husband of Debbie Ploor and devoted father of Allison and Sarah, passed away on May 25, 2023, at the age of 68. Born in Miami, Florida, on September 22, 1954, to Francis and Marjorie Ploor, Rick was a man of great personality and humor, a true community builder who brought people together wherever he went.

Rick grew up in Virginia Gardens, FL and though an only child, he garnered a band of brothers and sisters along with a brood of aunts, uncles, and cousins that were an influential part of his life. After graduating from Miami Springs High School, Rick attended Morehead State University, where he played soccer and was a member of the SAE fraternity. The relationships forged in brotherhood he maintained throughout his life.

Rick began his career in food sales with Oscar Mayer where he had the opportunity to drive the iconic Wienermobile, later working with the Hershey Chocolate Company, and eventually joining the food brokerage business. He was known to be the consummate salesman who delivered on his word. He was challenging, but fair, and you always knew where you stood with Rick.

In his personal life, Rick had a passion for playing golf, music, fine wine, and great food. He was an excellent host, ensuring everyone was well taken care of. His wife Debbie was his co-host, best friend, and the love of his life for 45 years. They created many memories traveling the world together, but their most legendary moments were made at the parties in their home with their family and closest friends.

Rick and Debbie’s love was extraordinary, admirable, and an example to their girls, Allison, and Sarah. He was president of his girl’s ballet company and a fixture at all their dance performances—often found crying backstage. He was proud of their accomplishments in their education and careers, and prouder of their strong character. Rick welcomed a son-in-law, Kevin Kennedy, into his family and became an adoring Pops to Owen Richard and Grant Patrick.

Rick loved life, and his infectious smile and humor made everyone feel welcomed and cared for. Even during his 6.5-year battle with Stage IV Melanoma, he never complained or lost his sense of humor, always asking his doctors at Moffitt Cancer Center, “What next, Doc?” His courage and fearlessness through it all were inspiring to all who knew him.

Rick Ploor was a man who lived life to the fullest. In golf and in life, he never laid up a shot, always going for it, and he proved that in everything he did. He was fiercely devoted to his family and friends, and his passing leaves a void that will be deeply felt by all who knew him.

Please join us to celebrate Rick's life on July 15th from 2-6pm at the Winthrop Barn Theater, 11349 Bloomingdale Ave, Riverview, FL, 33578. Please RSVP to Debbie Ploor, [email protected].

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to the Moffitt Cancer Center Foundation to support Melanoma research. Donations can be made by mailing a check to Moffitt Cancer Center Foundation, MBC-FOU, 12902 Magnolia Drive, Tampa, Florida 33612; online give.moffitt.org; or by calling 1-800-456-3434 ext. 1403. Please note that the donation is in memory of Rick Ploor in support of Melanoma research at Moffitt Cancer Center.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.StowersFH.com for the Ploor family.