Richard Dale Metzler passed away on March 6, 2016 at the age on 68. He was born on January 9, 1948, the son of William and Dorothy Metzler.
He leaves behind his wife of 32 years, Debra; two sons Joel Luna/Metzler, 39, and Jonathan Metzler, 31, daughter-in-law Davina Metzler, one grandson Dakota, and granddaughter Destiny.
He is also survived by brothers Rex Metzler of Akron and Max Metzler of Yuma as well as his nephews and nieces and their families.
Richard was born in Wray, Colorado, and grew up on a farm outside of Anton, where his love for farming began. He suffered Rheumatic fever as a young child. In his thirties he moved back to Anton.
He drove a grain truck for a short time, until a chance to farm came again. He crop shared the land for close to 20 years, during this time he battled more heart problems and underwent heart surgery, then again another heart surgery 19 years apart surprising doctors, both times at how well he recovered and went right back to work. The crop share land was sold. So he retired from farming. He move on to his second love in life--driving a truck for twelve years until his health would no longer permit. Rick was a very hard working man, who always strived to do the best job at whatever he was doing. He will be missed dearly.
A memorial service will be held Friday, March 11, 2016 at 11:00 a.m. at Bowin Funeral Home in Akron. Memorial donations may be made to the American Heart Association.