Richard John Dressel Jr.'s Obituary
Richard John Dressel, Jr., affectionately known by many as “Poppy,” passed away on Sunday morning, May 10, 2026, at the age of 72 after a brief but courageous battle with pancreatic cancer. At the time of his passing, the love of his life, his wife of 52 years, Ruth Ann, and his devoted daughter, Stephanie, were by his side.
Rick was born on July 26, 1953, to Richard John Dressel, Sr. and Anne Dressel. He was a graduate of Dickinson High School in Wilmington, Delaware, earned his Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from the University of Delaware, and later received his MBA from Wilmington University.
Rick began his career with the Delaware State Police on August 1, 1975, graduating from the 38th Recruit Class. Through hard work, integrity, and dedication, he rose through the ranks, earning the title of Lieutenant before retiring on October 1, 1996, after 21 years of honorable service to his community. Rick was also a lifetime member of the Association of Retired Delaware State Police. Following his retirement from the Delaware State Police, Rick spent the next 18 years working in the credit card fraud sector. In 2014, he and Ruthie fulfilled their lifelong dream of retiring to Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, where Rick continued to use his investigative talents as a private investigator for O’Rourke Investigative Services.
Poppy lived life fully and with purpose. He took tremendous pride in his health and rarely missed his daily routine of running, lifting weights, and then sitting on the front porch with Ruthie, enjoying a cup of coffee while watching the boats go by. Rick was deeply involved in every aspect of his children’s lives growing up, and one of his proudest roles was coaching the Kirkwood Krush soccer team. What began as a group of girls often underestimated by others became a close-knit team shaped by Rick’s encouragement, leadership, and belief in them. He left a lasting impact on the lives of the girls he coached, many of whom never forgot the confidence and support he gave them. In the eyes of so many, Poppy became a legend.
His world revolved around his “Core Six” — Ruthie, Steph, Anthony, Ava, Grayden, and himself. Nothing was ever more important to Poppy than showing up for the people he loved. Whether it was a sporting event, school function, ceremony, or milestone moment, he never missed an opportunity to support his children and grandchildren. He was the definition of a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and “Poppy” to so many. He loved golfing, fishing, reading, traveling with his family, spending time at the beach, and was an avid Philadelphia Eagles fan. Whether cheering on the Eagles or standing proudly on the sidelines of his grandchildren’s sporting events, Poppy was always their number one fan.
Rick and Ruth Ann’s home was always open. Poppy loved entertaining, making memories, and having his children, grandchildren, and their friends gathered around him. There was nothing he loved more than family, laughter, and togetherness.
In addition to his wife, Ruth Ann, Rick is survived by his loving daughter, Stephanie Lynn Ripanti, and her husband, Anthony, of Townsend, Delaware; and his beloved grandchildren, Ava Grace and Grayden James, of whom he could not have been more proud. He is also survived by his son, Richard Dressel III, of Harbeson, Delaware; his brothers, Mike Dressel (Christina), Steve Dressel (Angela), and Pete Dressel (Sandi); his sisters, Moe Naftzinger (Bobby) and Patty Fox (Bob); and many extended family members and lifelong friends.
Per Rick’s request, and in true Poppy fashion, services will be private, with a Celebration of Life to be held at a later date honoring the incredible man he was and the lasting impact he made on everyone fortunate enough to know him.
The family would also like to extend a very special thank you to Tina Ross, who has become like a daughter and sister to our family. Her unwavering love, compassion, support, and care during this difficult time meant more than words can express, and we will forever be grateful for the comfort and strength she provided to all of us.
Please sign Richard’s Tribute wall at this site.
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