Richard (Rick) Happel died on August 18, 2022 at the age of 70 at Evelyn’s House in Creve Coeur following several years of illnesses. Rick showed great courage as he faced treatments associated with Type 1 diabetes, bile duct cancer, liver transplant, quadruple heart bypass surgery, hours of physical therapy and kidney disease. He will remain a model of determination and persistence to those who knew him.

Born in Astoria, Oregon, Rick grew up in the Buffalo, NY area. He graduated from Canisius College with Bachelor of Science degrees in both Political Science and Accounting. He earned his Certified Public Accounting license, which led to positions in accounting, auditing, tax accounting and financial management. Rick moved to St. Louis in 1987 and served as CFO for the Saint Louis Bread Company in its infancy.

Rick was athletic at his essence. He was a member of the New York High School All-State Football Team, playing tight end. He became a Master Scuba Diver Trainer, and was a 4th degree black belt in Taekwondo. Rick also enjoyed golfing and lifting weights.

In 1997, Rick met Betsy Greene, and they were married in September, 1998. Together they have been parents to two beloved labradors, Ellie and Sox; and enjoyed taking vacations, making meals, attending movies and musical theatre, and just hanging out together.

Over the years Rick has used his knowledge and skills to help others in need, especially through his tax work and Taekwondo. His generosity in time and talent have helped hundreds – truly his legacy.

Rick is survived by his wife, Betsy, an ordained minister in the United Church of Christ.

A celebration of Rick’s life will be held on Saturday, August 27, 2022 at 1 pm at Kirkwood United
Church of Christ, 1603 Dougherty Ferry Rd., Kirkwood MO, 63122. Masks will be required. The service will also be streamed on Zoom, with a link shared below.

Gifts in Rick’s memory may be made to:

St. Louis Area Foodbank – www.stlfoodbank.org

Kirkwood United Church of Christ – www.kirkwooducc.org/giving

Kirkwood UCC is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.
Topic: Celebration of Life – Rick Happel – 8/27 at 1 pm
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87481822371
Meeting ID: 874 8182 2371
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+1 301 715 8592 US (Washington DC)
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Meeting ID: 874 8182 2371