Richard Mantz

Richard Orie Mantz passed away Saturday, February 5, 2022 at the age of 52. He attended Carroll High School in Carroll, Iowa, graduating in 1988.

Sergeant Mantz was a proud patriot. He served his nation as an Ammunition Technician in the Marine Corps from 1990-1994 and the Air National Guard from 2001-2005 where he supported national security after the terrorist attack of 9-11-01. For many years he was a maintenance mechanic and chemical operator, most recently employed by Afton Chemical.    

While stationed at Camp Pendleton, he met his wife Heather on a blind date in Tijuana. In true Rich fashion, snuck off base to marry her on 12-6-1992. (He then snuck back on without being caught.) He was a dedicated father to five children and recently celebrated the birth of two grandchildren, who will surely miss his presence as they grow. His greatest love was his family, and he proudly boasted about them frequently. He also enjoyed ancestry, automobile restoration, his dog Truman, a “good” deal, and his man cave.

Rich was predeceased by his Mother, Sandra Lee Baker. He is survived by his Father and Stepmother Randy and Ann Mantz; Wife, Heather; Children, Alyssa (husband Josh), Hunter (wife Carmen), Bethany (fiancé Marcus), Ezra, and Melissa; and grandchildren, Lucy and Miles. He is also survived by his siblings, Robin (husband Andy), Micki, Tammy (husband Tony) and Ross, as well as 15 nieces and nephews.

The loss was unexpected, leaving family and friends deeply saddened. He will be truly missed in so many ways.  There will not be a memorial or burial service, but he will receive full military honors at Jefferson Barracks Cemetery in St. Louis, MO.  The family requests that in lieu of flowers or monetary gifts, donations be made to Semper Fi Fund in Rich’s name.  If you would like to leave a message for the family, you can do so by visiting www.RichesonFH.com.

Richeson Funeral Home, Troy, is in charge of the arrangements.