Ricky L. Wadlington, Sr.
April 17, 1959 – February 14, 2025
A Celebration of Life will take place at a later date. Memorial contributions may be made to charity of one’s choice, c/o the funeral home.
Obituary
Age 65 of Portage, passed away on Friday morning, February 14, 2025. Roach was born in Kalamazoo on April 17, 1959, the son of Marion “Gene” and Livrea Ruth (Bowman) Wadlington. Roach worked at Portage Aluminum for 18+ years as a furnace tender. In his spare time, he loved playing horseshoes and taking his grandchildren fishing. He liked painting arts and crafts projects, alone and with the grandkids. He also enjoyed his four-legged companion, Boss. Roach is survived by his children, Ricky Wadlington, Jr., Nichole (Alan) Goodwin, James Beacham, Dustin Beacham, Kasey (James) Bakhuyzen; 10 grandchildren; siblings, Sandra Holley, Marion Wadlington Jr., Larry Wadlington, Tony Wadlington; several nieces and nephews; and countless friends. He was preceded in death by his parents; his life-time companion, Christy Esman.
Our deepest, deepest condolences to all of the family. Roach… we’ve known you practically our entire lives. You were by far the funniest, craziest, and coolest friend that our parents ever had! There are so many childhood/young adult memories with you in them… Thank you for being a part of lives and for always treating us like family! May you rest easy. We love you always Rick Roach!