Richard "Rick" Emory Sheaffer

Richard "Rick" Emory Sheaffer, 75, of La Porte, IN, peacefully passed away on Sunday, January 18, 2026, at his home, surrounded by the love of his family.

Rick was born on January 16, 1951, in La Porte, IN, to Lorin and Dorothy (Folk) Sheaffer.

On April 6, 2014, in Montego Bay, Jamaica, he married Deborah Ryden who survives. Also surviving are his son, Matthew (Jennifer) Sheaffer of Berthoud, CO; daughters, Nichole Sheaffer, Shelbi (Alex) Lant, and Breanne Smith, all of La Porte; grandchildren, Arnica Sheaffer of Allendale, MI, Dylan Sheaffer of Berthoud, CO, Carter Sheaffer of Berthoud, CO, Braiyden Lant of La Porte, Levi Lant of La Porte, Lucas Lant of La Porte, Killian Allen of Michigan City, and Juliette Allen of Michigan City; brother, David (Nancy) Sheaffer of Fort Gratiot, MI; nephew, Chris (Laura) Sheaffer of Plainfield, IL; and niece, Amy (Ron) Sheaffer of Lakeport, MI.

He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Doris Loraine Sheaffer; and granddaughter, Ivy Breeze Allen.

Rick worked as a lineman with NIPSCO for 33 years. He was a member of the La Porte Yacht Club, the NHRA National Dragsters, and the Maple City Street Cruisers. Rick was a car enthusiast and loved restoring cars for 55 years. He was an avid NASCAR fan.

During their marriage, Rick and Deborah enjoyed traveling together. Rick loved the mountains in CO, as well as the beaches of Fort Myers Beach, FL. Fond memories of their travels will forever be held by Deborah.

Cremation has taken place with Cutler Funeral Home and Cremation Center, La Porte.

A Celebration of Life Memorial Service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, January 24, 2026, at Cutler Funeral Home and Cremation Center.

A time of visitation will be held from 12:00 p.m. until the time of service on Saturday at the funeral home.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the family c/o Deborah Sheaffer, 2900 Monroe St., La Porte, IN 46350.

Condolences may be shared with the family online at www.cutlercares.com.