Columbus, OH — Richard E. Wilcox, 96, died Dec. 10, 2024, in Rochester N.Y.
He was born in Springfield, Ohio, on July 26, 1928, to parents Dwight and Gertrude (Mautz). He served in the army for two years from 1950-1952 in Germany.
He was married for 56 years to Emily Mary Perez who preceded him in death in 2014. He was also preceded in death by his brother, Dwight Jr., and Betty Lou Beatty. He is survived by daughters, Betty Ann Wasik and Mary Lou McCarthy; grandchildren, Nathan Stein and Alanna Brahm; and four great-grandchildren.
Mr. Wilcox grew up in Hamilton, Ohio. He started training and driving Standardbreds at age 20 and went on to train and drive them through six decades. His favorite horse was the double gaited Dandy Dick who raced in the 1940s and 1950s. His favorite place to winter train was Pinehurst N.C. He served as Pinehurst Harness Horsemen’s Club president for many years. In retirement he enjoyed watching his nephew, Hugh “Sandy” Beatty, race in Ohio.
He loved playing the card game Euchre and earned the nickname “Tricky Dick” when playing.
Most of all he was well respected and known for his honesty and strong work ethic.
Visitation will be held on Dec. 16 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Vay-Schleich and Meeson Funeral Home in Greece, N.Y.