Ricky Joe "Bear" Mettler

Ricky Joe "Bear" Mettler, 72, of Adelphi, passed away on May 19, 2025 at Adena Regional Medical Center after a courageous battle of several health issues over many years. He was born on December 1, 1952, the son of the late Francis Eugene and Imogene (Rinehart) Mettler.

He was predeceased by his mother and father; brother, Charlie Mettler; infant brother, Roger; special sister-in-law, Bonnie Mettler; in-laws, Emery and Virginia Pritchard; and numerous aunts and uncles, including special aunt and uncle, Jack and Betty Mettler.

He is survived by his partner and caregiver of 39 years, Deborah Funk; brother, Russell "Duke" Mettler, of Adelphi; daughters, DeeJah (James) Haughn and Jada (Timmy) Herring, of Snow Camp, North Carolina; grandchildren, Nakiah (James) Calvano, Jaden Herring, Austin Haughn, and Emaline Herring; great-grandchildren, Isabella and Azlin McClain and Salvatore Calvano; sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Roxanne and David Unrig and family; aunt, Marilyn Spindler; nieces and nephews, Gregg Mettler, Beth Downs, and Chad Mettler and their families, Little Charlie Mettler and Bonnie Jean; numerous cousins, including Sue, John, Tammy, and their families.

Rick was a 1973 graduate of Zane Trace High School, where he played on their first football team. Rick was employed by Dale W. Riddle Forest Products for 34 years until he retired because of health issues. He enjoyed spending time with his family, traveling to North Carolina, listening to his collection of albums including his favorite band, KISS, watching TV while eating his snacks and drinking his favorite drinks (Pepsi and Root beer floats), and was an avid OSU football fan. He will be greatly missed by all who loved him.

Memorial Services will be held on Wednesday, May 28, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. at the HILL FUNERAL HOME, Kingston with Rev. Barry Bennett officiating. The family will receive friends on Wednesday from 6:00 p.m. until the time of the service at Hill's. Condolences can be made on Ricky's online guest registry at www.hillfhkingston.com.