Richard “Rick” Dale Swecker, 64, of Richmond, Virginia, passed away on December 5, 2025. Born on November 13, 1961, in Elkins, West Virginia, Rick was the son of Richard Neil Swecker and Jane Ellen Gear Swecker.
Rick built a remarkable 40-year career with McDonald’s, where he managed multimillion-dollar operations and served most of that time as a Director of Operations. His leadership, dedication, and ability to bring out the best in others left a lasting impact on countless coworkers and colleagues throughout the region.
Outside of work, Rick loved the outdoors and was an avid hiker and hunter. Rick completed a large portion of the Appalachian Trail, a personal achievement he was deeply proud of. He also had a lifelong passion for classic cars, especially his GTO (the Judge) and his Firebird. No matter how challenging his day had been, he always found a way to smile. His resilience, kindness, and quiet strength defined him. Above all, Rick was a devoted father who did everything humanly possible for his five children.
Rick is survived by his father, Richard Neil Swecker; his children Kristina Swecker, Brandon Swecker (Jeannette), Katherine Colony (Brian), Lisa Little (Jamie) and Emily Stambaugh (Jason); his ten beloved grandchildren; his sisters Leslie Swecker and Evelyn Hood (Ken); many nieces and nephews; long-time friend Michael Williams, and his beloved dog Tessie. He was preceded in death by his mother, Jane Ellen Gear Swecker, and his infant brother, William Edward Swecker.
A viewing will take place at Bliley’s Funeral Home, 6900 Hull Street Road, Richmond, Va., 23224, on December 11, 2025, from 6 to 8 p.m. Rick will be laid to rest at Brick Church Cemetery in Huttonsville, W.Va., on December 12, 2025, at 1 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Richmond SPCA in Rick’s honor.
