Richard Eugene Wenninger

Richard Eugene Wenninger peacefully took his last ride on March 28^th, 2021 in Mobile, Alabama with the comfort of his children surrounding him. He was born in Bucyrus, Ohio to Janet McFarland Wenninger and Gusta “Gus” Wenninger on February 1^st, 1950. The youngest of four children, Gus and Janet kept a tight rein on Dickie; he was the only boy and always up to something. He raised hell and drove his mother crazy. Rich grew up playing little league, singing in choir, and acting in the Bucyrus community theater. Rich was an avid golfer even from a young age. Rich and Gus were the first father son duo to make a hole in one on the same hole (#6) at the old Bucyrus Country Club. He graduated from Bucyrus High in 1968. After his youthful buffoonery, Rich attended THE Ohio State University, where he became devoted fan for life. He then made the courageous choice to go into a career in law enforcement. He served as a police officer for the Bucyrus, OH and Long Beach, MS police departments. After achieving the rank of Detective in Long Beach his co-workers and friends playfully gave him the nickname “Dick Tracy”. He rose in rank to Captain and was the 3^rd highest ranking officer in the department. Rich medically retired as the result of injuries sustained in the line of duty, which left him partially paralyzed from the waist down. Nothing could stop Rich from doing the things he loved. After he retired, he continued to golf (using a custom cart) and bowl (from his wheelchair). Rich was a mentor to disabled youth & others in the community and a remarkable friend. In his later years he enthusiastically bought a motorcycle and took his bike on countless rides. He loved to ride his motorcycle and was passionate about his memberships in the riding groups GWRRA CH. A Dixie Wings, and Patriot Guard Riders. He really enjoyed woodworking, loved singing, and had a delightful voice. His personality was so infectious, and he was truly loved by all. Rich loved his family and could not be prouder of his kids. Dick never met a stranger; to know him was to love him.

He is survived by his children Treg (Jamie), Bryson, Dustin, Dorrell (Brittany), Desiree, Justin (Amanda), Rebecca, and Josh. His sisters Judy (Charlie), Bobbi, and Penny (John). His 7 grandchildren, 2 nephews, and 4 nieces. Richard was preceded in death by his parents Gus and Janet. 

Funeral Services will be held on Monday, April 5th, 2021 at 1:00pm at Mobile Funeral Home and Crematory.

In lieu of flowers, we ask that you do an unexpected act of kindness in Rich’s name or please consider donating to Children's Hospital of Alabama 1600 7th Ave S, Birmingham, AL 35233. Online condolences may be given at www.mobilefhc.com. Mobile Funeral Home and Crematory - Mobile, Alabama.

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