Richard Lee Rife

Born and raised in Kettering, OH, Richie built his life the old-fashioned way — through hard work, hustle, and handshakes you could count on. Those were traits he learned from his father and grandfather growing up. He was the president of R&R Painting Co., Inc. He enjoyed working alongside several family members and employees who he held close to his heart. He earned a reputation for quality that spoke for itself. He took pride in every job, showing up early and staying until it was done right. He cherished the relationships he had with his employees, contractors, clients, and associates in the industry. He was an overly generous man — not just with money, but with his time and his talents as well. One thing was always for sure: If he or his children played on a recreational team, his business sponsored it. He loved supporting the community, especially youth sports.

During his childhood, Richie’s fondest memories were from times spent at his grandparents with his parents, siblings, aunts, and cousins. Over the years, he enjoyed family gatherings there and was honored to help care for his grandfather as he aged.

Richie was a 1975 graduate of Fairmont East High School. As young adult, Richie spun records as a DJ at Skateworld of Kettering, where he met lifelong friends. It was there that he also met the woman who would become his wife. Together they enjoyed boating at Lake Cumberland, their co-ed softball and bowling leagues, and their annual trips to the Peterson Classic bowling tournament in Chicago. They ran multiple businesses, including the Pirate’s Whip ice cream shop. Despite busy days, they often made time to meet up for lunch at The Chili King or go to Jet Freeze for dessert in the evening. They built a life and a family together — raising a daughter and a son, who were Richie’s greatest joy and proudest accomplishment.

Many memories were made with neighbors and hosting pool parties in the backyard. Whether playing shuffleboard or horseshoes, there was always a competition! Family vacations were road trips to Michigan and annual trips to celebrate Christmas in Florida, where friends they met over 30 years ago became family. You could find Richie at local flea markets there, where he found a love for coin-collecting. He eventually sold his business and moved to Tavares, FL. Richie loved being closer to his daughter’s family. He was known to sneak away for hours taking his grandchildren to get Jersey Girls bagels or Orange Smash at Jeremiah’s Italian Ice. He shared many laughs while playing cards with neighbors. Most days were spent settling into the front-porch rockers taking in the views and talking to his son, who was always his right-hand. Richie adored their dog, Maggie, and she was often out there by his side.

When he wasn’t with family, you’d find Richie at the bowling alley where he was equally competitive and entertaining, owning multiple 300 games. A round of golf and dinner with friends after was another favorite pastime. Richie loved riding his motorcycle, and you’d most often find him in Harley apparel. He was generally a quiet man, but you really felt his presence when he was comfortable amongst his closest friends and family. He was a loving husband, loyal friend, a proud father, and grandpa.

While navigating life with glioblastoma was an incredibly challenging journey, Richie never gave up hope of getting better and driving again. He may have even snuck a couple of joy rides that we weren’t supposed to know about. We suspect that he fired up the Viper as well, but we will never know… He was determined despite his odds.

Many prayers were answered throughout Richie’s life as he grew in his faith, and it was his faith that sustained him. Richie maintained a positive attitude, but spirits were lifted most when loved ones visited, called, and sent messages offering prayers and encouragement. The past few months, he really enjoyed his nephew’s youthful energy and the extra hands at home were helpful. Richie often expressed how grateful he was for the sacrifices that so many people made to support him, especially his wife and son who cared for him around the clock for over 14 months.

Richie’s family finds comfort that he is now at peace and in the presence of the Lord.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Ernest C. and Chloe L. (Turner) Rife; his father, Ernest L. Rife; his mother, Dorothy J. (Andres) Rife; his brother, Ernest L. Rife, Jr.; his sister, Debra L. Campbell; his nephew, Shawn L. Campbell; and his grandson, Miles J. Avallone.

He is survived by his devoted wife of 39 years, Therese M. (Howe) Rife; his daughter, Stacey L. (Rife) Avallone, and her husband, Michael; his son, Eric T. Rife; his grandchildren, Matthew, Leah, and Micah Avallone; and many family members and friends whose lives are richer for having known him.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate the life of Richie over the following days:

Viewing Hours

Wednesday, June 24 @ 4:00 - 7:00PM

Tobias Funeral Home – Far Hills Chapel

5471 Far Hills Ave, Dayton, OH 45429

Mass of Christian Burial

Thursday, June 25 @ 1:00PM (visitation begins 1 hour prior)

St. Charles Borromeo

4500 Ackerman Blvd, Kettering, OH 45429

A procession to Beavertown Cemetery will follow the service.

Celebration of Rich's Life immediately following the procession. All are welcome.

Presidential Banquet Center

4548 Presidential Way, Kettering, OH 45429

Memorial Skate at Skateworld of Vandalia

Friday, June 26 @ 7:30 – 10:30PM

333 S. Brown School Rd., Vandalia, OH 45377

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to either of the organizations below that are near to the family’s hearts. Checks should be made payable to address provided. Please reference that your donation is in honor of Richard “Rich” Rife. For questions or alternate ways to donate, please reach out to the family or the appropriate contact. Thank you!

Cincinnati Cursillo

424 N. Marshall Rd.

Middletown, OH 45042

Blake Rinderle

[email protected]

Tidewell Blue Butterfly

3550 S. Tamiami Trail

Sarasota, FL 34239

Valerie Vitale

[email protected]

Condolences may be sent to www.tobiasfuneralhome.com