Richard James “Rick” Moon passed away peacefully on Easter Sunday, April 5, 2026, just one day shy of his 76th birthday. In a way that felt deeply meaningful, Rick passed on the same holy day as his father, who died when Rick was just 10 years old, a loss that helped shape the quiet strength he carried throughout his life.

Born on April 6, 1950, to Herbert and Alphonsine Moon, Rick was the middle child of twelve children, raised on a farm where life was simple, resources were scarce, and hard work was never optional. Those humble beginnings shaped the man he became: steady, resilient, and deeply appreciative of life’s simplest gifts.

In 1974, Rick married the love of his life, Anita, beginning a partnership that would span more than 50 years and carry them faithfully through every season of life. Together they built a life and family, raising their children Brandon and Lindsay. Later, through Rick’s involvement with Big Brothers Big Sisters, his quiet kindness and open heart led to something even greater when Shanea found her forever family as a Moon.

Rick proudly served his country in the United States Army during his young adult years and spent most of his life working as a meat cutter, a trade that reflected his strong work ethic and deep commitment to providing for his family.

On April 15, 2001, also Easter Sunday, Rick became a grandpa to Kendall Grace, a role he played to perfection. He was a big kid at heart, known for his storytelling, his patience, and his unwavering love. Rick found immense joy in showing up for his children and grandchildren, whether on the sidelines, in the stands, or wherever his family needed him most.

He loved cheering on his family in their many athletic pursuits. A lifelong Bruin football fan, Rick never missed a chance to support his grandson Drew as a Bengal. Rick and Anita also cherished the time they spent in Arizona, where they proudly became Puma fans while cheering on Hayden and Ashtyn. He loved playing games with the grandkids, and Josie was always one of his fiercest competitors. It was never uncommon to find the two of them playing dice at the kitchen table. Kingston, the youngest grandchild, was deeply adored by his grandpa. Though Rick did not get to spend as much time with him as he would have liked, there is no doubt Shanea will carry on Grandpa Rick’s stories for years to come. Just one week before his passing, his granddaughter Reese won her first gold medal as a gymnast competing for Team USA in Italy. Rick will always be remembered as his family’s number one fan.

Rick was not a man of extravagance. He was simple in the most meaningful way, never impressed by material things, but deeply fulfilled by the moments others might overlook. Even in his final months, after falls that required help getting back on his feet, he would smile and ask, “I wonder what the poor people are doing?” It was a question that, in both its humor and humility, perfectly captured his perspective. Rick may never have been rich by the world’s standards, but he was rich in contentment, gratitude, and love.

Rick never met a stranger. His contagious smile, steady presence, and unwavering appreciation for life’s simple blessings will be remembered always.

Rick was preceded in death by his father, Herbert; his mother, Alphonsine, in-laws James and Marjorie Geiger; his brothers, Rod and Ken; his sisters, Cece and Yvonne; and his infant son, Richard James Jr.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Anita; his children, Brandon (Michele), Lindsay, Mark, and Shanea (Brett); and his grandchildren, Kendall (Andrew), Josie, Drew, Reese, Hayden, Ashtyn, and Kingston. He is also survived by his siblings Roger, Gloria, Mona, Ron, Bernie, Brenda, and Kathy as well as many nieces, nephews, and too many friends to name.

Rick’s family would like to extend their deepest appreciation to everyone who reached out to and visited him in his final months. He was never short on visitors or love. A special thank you goes to his buddy Jerry, who showed up every day with a smile and ice cream. To the Great Bozo and Jeanne for always being there for him no matter where “there" was. The family is also deeply grateful to the nurses and staff at the VA, who made Rick feel at home, and to the caregivers at the Cooney Home, who went above and beyond to accommodate his needs. Rick was so grateful for each of you.