Ricky Dewayne Waddle

He was preceded in death by his mother, Melvirdia; his father, Cecil; his wife, Gloria; and his stepson, Richard.

He is survived by his children, Tyler, Melissa, and Jalen; his stepchildren, Michelle, Tina, Abie, and Steve; his grandchildren, step-grandchildren, and step-great-grandchildren; and his brother and sister, Mike and Patty.

Rick graduated from Westwood High School and proudly served four years in the United States Air Force. He later worked at Motorola while attending night school, where he earned an associate degree in electromechanical drafting. He was also a certified EMT.

Rick and his wife, Gloria, worked at the Motorola Mesa plant until it closed in 2003, just short of his 25th anniversary. He then joined ASM, where he worked as a sustainer and installer of microchip equipment at Intel. He retired in 2019.

Rick had a deep love for the outdoors, especially hunting, fishing, and shooting. He was a passionate hobbyist who approached every new interest with enthusiasm and dedication. When something caught his attention, he immersed himself in it and made sure he had the knowledge and equipment to do it right.

His many interests included fly fishing, speed shooting, knife collecting, watch collecting, art and drawing, making lanyards and fishing lures, and customizing firearms. He even owned three electric bikes. One of the things that made Rick special was his willingness to share his passions with others. When he moved on to a new hobby, he often passed along his gear so someone else could enjoy it.

Rick was a man of integrity and strong principles. He enjoyed movies, music, and good food, and he was a natural storyteller. One story, in particular, will live on in the memories of his children and grandchildren: his famous campfire tale, “The Red Eyes.” It was a story that became part of his family's history and a cherished memory that can be passed down through generations.

Rick will be remembered for his hardworking nature, his many talents, his love of the outdoors, and the memories he created with those around him. His presence will be deeply missed, but his stories and the legacy he leaves behind will continue to live on through his family.

He will be missed and remembered always.

A private graveside interment of Rick's ashes is scheduled for November 20, 2026, at 11:30 a.m.