Rick J. Kirkpatrick, 57, of Fort Wayne, passed away suddenly at 7:54 p.m. Monday, April 1, 2024 at his home. He had been battling leukemia.

Born on May 9, 1966 in Fort Wayne, Indiana, he was a son of Iris Jackson (wife JoAnn Kirkpatrick) and Julia A. (Milledge) Stutesman.  Growing up in the Fremont area, he graduated from Fremont High School in 1985.

On November 9, 1987 he was united in marriage to Kelly Carpenter.  The couple made their home in Fort Wayne.

He enjoyed spending time with family and enjoyed the pets he and Kelly shared.

Surviving is his wife, Kelly; sisters, Deborah (Kirk) Mason of Dawsonville, GA, Terisa (John) Siedner of Sturgis, MI, Patricia (Brian) Loop and Retta Jo (Ben) Yoder both of Fort Wayne.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Julia; and step-father William Stutesman.

There will be a celebration of life held at The Sanctuary, 202 N. Chauncey Street, Columbia City from 2 to 5 p.m. on Friday, April 5, 2024.

Arrangements are in the care of Smith & Sons Funeral Home, Columbia City.