Richard “Dick” “Rich” Coombs, age 70, was reunited with many loved ones on December 3, 2025, after a courageous battle with cancer.

Rich was born on July 9, 1955, in Ladysmith, Wisconsin, to Robert and Lela Ruth (Arrighi) Coombs. He joined two older brothers at their family home at Pike Haven in Winter, Wisconsin, where he grew up and attended Winter High School. He graduated in 1973, where he enjoyed participating in basketball, baseball, track, cross country, and choir.

After high school, Rich embraced adventure, living for a time in Oahu, Hawaii, and Palm Springs, California, before returning to Wisconsin. He attended Indianhead College in Rice Lake, graduating in 1974 with an associate degree in metal machining.

Richard later married Mellanye McCain, and together they welcomed a daughter in 1976. In 1978, he moved to Onalaska, Wisconsin, where he built a long and respected career as a silk screener and CNC machine operator. He returned to school and proudly earned an associate degree in accounting with high honors from Western Wisconsin Technical College in 1996. He worked at places including Northern Engraving, Machine Products and Valley Machining, forming lasting friendships along the way, before retiring in 2015.

In his free time, Rich had a true green thumb and maintained stunning gardens filled with flowers and vegetables. He loved fishing, spending time on the river and frequent trips back north to the Chippewa Flowage. He also enjoyed the freedom of riding his Harley, collecting sports memorabilia, and immersing himself in music. Music held a deep place in his heart—especially blues, rock and roll, and folk rock, which touched his soul.

Above all else, Rich was an exceptional father and grandfather. He loved nothing more than time spent with his family. One of his favorite traditions was finding treasures in the clearance aisle at Walmart—his granddaughter eagerly awaiting each week’s surprise, never knowing what special treat Papa would bring.

Rich is survived by his daughter Meranda and granddaughter Lela, both of Trempealeau, Wisconsin; his brother John (Cindy) Coombs; sister-in-law Sheila Coombs; nieces Rachel Sadler, Liana Schlotter, and Shana Coombs; nephews Rob and Jeff Coombs; many great-nieces and nephews; and many beloved friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Lela Ruth Coombs, and his brother, Bob Coombs.

Rich will be remembered for his strong work ethic, kind heart, love of music and nature, and the quiet joy he found in caring for those he loved.

There will be no services. Possibly a gathering in July.

Coulee Region Cremation Group is assisting the family. Please visit CouleeCremation.com to send a condolence to the family.