Coping with Grief
We would like to offer our sincere support to anyone coping with grief. Enter your email below for our complimentary daily grief messages. Messages run for up to one year and you can stop at any time. Your email will not be used for any other purpose.
Richard “Rich” Rueppel, 77, of Onaway, Idaho, passed away on April 3, 2026, from an apparent heart attack.
Rich was a treasured brother, uncle, and friend whose quiet strength and kindness touched all who knew him. A decorated Vietnam War veteran, he proudly served his country in the United States military from 1968 to 1970. His service and sacrifice were a lasting source of pride to his family, and his dedication will be honored at his final resting place.
Following his military service, Rich worked on the railroad for many years until his retirement. In his free time, he enjoyed working on cars and spending peaceful days fishing. He was a humble and modest man with a warm heart, always grateful for time spent with family. Rich especially cherished holiday gatherings, where his steady presence brought comfort and joy. His siblings, nieces, and nephews held him in deep admiration and love.
Rich was preceded in death by his parents, Gib and Jessie Rueppel, and his sister, Carol Kraut.
He is survived by his sister, Holly Ely; his brother-in-law, Curly Ely; and many loving nieces and nephews.
A funeral service will be held on Friday, April 24, at 11:00 a.m. at Faith Church in Onaway, Idaho. Burial will follow at Mendenhall Cemetery, where Rich will be laid to rest with full military honors in recognition of his honorable and decorated service to his country.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of RICHARD ALLEN RUEPPEL, please visit our floral store.
DONOR'S CHOICE