Richard Wayne Wrestler

Richard (Ricky)Wayne Wrestler, a devoted husband, loving son, cherished brother, and uncle, passed away unexpectedly on June 23, 2025, at his residence in Thayer, KS. Born on February 19, 1987, in Chanute, Kansas, to Glenn Jr. and Debra (Chisham) Wrestler. Richard lived a life marked by service, dedication, and love for his family and community.

 After graduating from Altoona Midway in 2005, Richard pursued a path of service that led him to join the United States Air Force, where he proudly served as a crew chief mechanic, achieving the rank of Staff Sergeant. During his nine years of service, he was stationed in Omaha, Nebraska, and was honorably released from his duties in 2018. His commitment to his country and his craft laid a strong foundation for his later endeavors. 

He was united in marriage to Dawn Bartholomew on October 9, 2021, in Chanute, Kansas

Following his military service, Richard returned to his roots, working as a farmhand and mechanic. His practical skills were matched only by his passion for life; he found great joy in smoking meat, riding motorcycles, and engaging in ministry with family and friends! He was also a Volunteer firefighter for Galesburg, St. Paul, and Buffalo. Richard was a faithful member of Blessed Hope Bible Baptist Church in Chanute, Kansas, where he fostered connections that enriched his life and the lives of those around him. 

Ricky is survived by his beloved wife, Dawn (Bartholomew) Wrestler, who filled his life with love and purpose. He leaves behind his parents, Glenn Wrestler Jr., and Debra (Chisham) Wrestler, as well as his siblings: Stacey Hinson of Rock Hill, SC, Dawn Bryant of Fort Scott, KS, John Erie Jr. of Carl Junction, MO, Anita Vaughn of Chanute, KS, and Larry Wrestler of Goldsboro, NC, and many nieces and nephews. 

He was preceded in death by his brother, Mikey Wrestler, Grandparents, Glenn Wrestler Sr. and Alta Barnett, and Mildred Chisham and Lawrence Chisham. 

Ricky will be remembered for his unwavering spirit, his joyful involvement in life, the deep love he shared with his family and friends, and most importantly, his love for the Lord. His legacy will continue through the many lives he touched and the memories he created. 

Memorials are suggested to the Thayer Fire Department or Blessed Hope Bible Baptist Church and can be left with or mailed to the Wickham Family Funeral Home, 500 North Forest Ave, Chanute, Kansas. 

A visitation will be held Wednesday, July 2, 2025, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Wickham Family Funeral Home, 500 North Forest Ave. Chanute, KS. 

A Celebration of Life service will take place on Thursday, July 3, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. Wickham Family Funeral Home, 500 North Forest Ave, Chanute, Kansas, with burial to follow at a later date at Neosho County Memorial Park Cemetery.