“Trashman” Rick Harold Kinzler, 79, of Watervliet, Michigan, unexpectedly passed away on Saturday, September 5, 2026.

Rick and his twin brother, Vick, began their lives together on May 2, 1947, born to their loving parents, Roy “Roy Boy” and June Kinzler. Rick was proud to call Watervliet his home.

Rick was truly a legend when it came to being a family man. He spent his life being a strong, kind, and steady presence for those he loved. He devoted himself to being peaceful, loving, caring, and dependable. He was always there for his family, no matter the weather or circumstances. Rick was the kind of person who showed up - always. No stone was left unturned, and no job was left unsolved when Rick was around. If someone needed him, he was there. His family could always count on him, and his love was shown not only through his words, but through everything he did.

He found joy in the simple things in life and took great pride in those that he loved. He never missed an opportunity to Coach his children when they were young, attend his grandchildren’s sporting events, and celebrate their accomplishments, always cheering them on with pride.

Throughout his life, Rick had a true love for competition and racing. He spent many years racing and showing cars and later shared that same passion with his son through BMX racing across the Country, drag racing, and eventually circle track racing. As the years went on, Rick had the joy of sharing his love and excitement for racing and creating special memories with his grandson, Blake through BMX and dirt bike racing. His passion for racing became more than a past time- it became a family tradition and a bond shared across generations.

Rick loved his Harley and there was no better bike to him than a Harley Davidson. He and his wife Laura, could often be found riding side by side, attending organized bike runs and social events. Some of their favorite places to visit were, Sturgis, Daytona Beach, and Myrtle Beach.

He loved a clean white vehicle with shiny chrome wheels. He could often be found tinkering away in his garage surrounded by his neon lights, amongst many other trinkets and gadgets he enjoyed. He loved cruising around town on his Harley, moped, and golf cart. He enjoyed camping, traveling, playing cards and spending time on the farm due to his love for farm animals. Rick enjoyed arm wrestling with Rod and Blake, and took great pride in teaching Rod, Blake, and Mason how to create a human flag pole, which was a talent taught to him by his dad, Roy. These were just a few of many things that made him unique

He especially enjoyed sharing stories of his younger and sometimes wild days with his children and grandchildren, giving them memories they will carry with them forever. He took pride in his yard and making sure everything was manicured just the way he liked it. There was no better place for him to relax than in his recliner watching Gunsmoke and Old Westerns, drifting off for a well-earned nap. These simple pleasures brought him happiness and created countless memories that his family will forever cherish.

Rick was affectionally known as the “Ricktionary” because if his talent for making up words and his unique sense of humor. His quick wit and ability to make people laugh will be remembered by everyone who knew and loved him.

Rick proudly retired after 51 years of garbage service, from Republic Services, where he built lifelong friendships and made lasting memories.

Rick is survived by his wife of 30 years, Laura Kinzler; his children, Roderick (Erica) Kinzler and Candice Kinzler, and their mother, Joyce Divis, all of Watervliet; Serenity Lacey of Watervliet; and Eva (Tom) Deglopper of Hopkins. His greatest joys are his grandchildren, Blake, Olivia, and Mason Kinzler.

He is also survived by his twin brother as well as best friend, Vick (Joyce) Kinzler; nephew Todd (Tana) Kinzler; mother-in-law Mary Lorenz; and countless friends who became family.

Rick was blessed to discover Eva through an unexpected Ancestry DNA connection. What began as a surprising discovery grew into a meaningful and cherished relationship that brought him great joy and additional grandchildren, Christopher, Samantha, Anthony, Miller and Ashley Dekker.

Rick was preceded in death by his parents, Roy and June Kinzler. Grandparents; Charles (Sophie) Kinzler and Lillian (Harold) Newton.

Rick leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, kindness, and unwavering devotion to his family. He was a man who believed in showing up, taking care of the people he loved, and making sure no one was left without help. His calm nature, positive outlook, caring heart, sense of humor, and steady presence touched more lives than he probably ever realized.

He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all those fortunate enough to have known him. His memory will live on through the people he loved, the laughter he shared, and the countless lives he made better simply by being Rick.

Service

Family and close friends are invited to a Memorial Service for Rick on Friday, September 11, 2026 at Hutchins Funeral Home at 1:00pm. Pastor Ed Richcreek will Officiate the Memorial Service.

Celebration of Life

A Celebration honoring Rick’s life will be held on Saturday, September 19, 2026 at 1:00 p.m. at Arclight in Watervliet. Family and friends are invited to gather for a Celebration of Rick’s life and legacy, with luncheon.

You are encouraged to pull up on your motorcycle or in your hot rod for both services. In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes donations in Rick’s memory to his 13-year-old niece, Serenity Lacey, whom Rick and Laura lovingly adopted and cared for. Donations may be made to; Venmo @Whole9YardsLLC For : Serenity Lacey.