Richard "Rick" A. Edwards, from Fredericktown, Missouri, a beloved husband, father, stepfather, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, cousin, and friend, passed away on Tuesday, April 18, 2023, at the age of 71.  He was preceded in death by his wife, Anita Edwards; parents, John M. Edwards, Shirley (nee Means) and George Wojcicki;  his siblings, Gary Edwards and Sheri Howard; brother-in-law Michael Taber, and grandson Simon Shelp.

Rick was a beloved father to Sarah (Steve) Hayes, Elizabeth (Rod) Hamlett, and Hannah (Tim) Shelp, and stepfather to Kenneth Broome, Andrew West and Jesse West.

In addition to his children, he is survived by his sisters, Cathy Taber and Carol Manson;  his 26 grandchildren, Kaylee (Levi), Hannah (Joseph), Emma (Jacob), Olivia, Bradyn, Mary, Ava, Brian, Aya, Dominic, Lane, Gracelyn, Maverick, Fiona, Myra, Sawyer, KayLee, Robert, Joseph, Macey, Aydin, Kyree, LuciBeth, Oliver, Ameliyah, and Saya; and 4 great-grandchildren, Ezekiel, Ariella, Elliana, and Steven; and cousins, nieces, nephews, and many, many friends.

Rick never met a stranger. He had a love for music that was infectious and wherever he went, he created a festive atmosphere.  He was an avid hunter, and his stories of the hunt were legendary.  Rick had a unique flair for dancing, with his long, curly hair always peeking out from under his hat.  He approached everything in life with passion, whether it was his love for politics, his scholarly knowledge of history, or his dedication to the various unions and clubs he was a part of.  He served as shop chairman multiple times and was actively involved in advocating for workers' rights.  He enjoyed participating in shuffleboard leagues and had many stories of his strategy and the competitions.

As a father, Rick instilled in his daughters the values of the union and the blue-collar lifestyle. He supported them in their youth interests and through their college education.  He lived life to the fullest, playing hard and working hard.  Rick will be remembered for his deep dedication to friendships.  He valued his family relationships immensely and made weekend phone calls to his siblings, cousins, and friends a cherished routine.  Rick's spirit was larger than life, and he will be greatly missed by all, especially his girls.

A celebration of life in honor of Rick will be held on April 30, from 1 pm to 6 pm , at the group picnic area at Quail Ridge Park in Wentzville, MO.  It will be a time to remember and celebrate the life of a passionate man who always had a smile and a story to share.

Family and Friends may sign the online guest book @www.mccoyblossom@gmail.com