Richard Eugene Slomkowski Jr. (Rick), born in Detroit, Michigan, on September 25, 1956, passed away unexpectedly near his home in Carbondale, Illinois. Rick had been missing since August 13, 2024, and evidence shows that injuries from an accidental fall on the evening of his disappearance led to his death. He was 67 years old at the time of the accident. His body was recovered after his 68th birthday, on October 4, 2024.
Our family is heartbroken by this immense loss and will forever carry Rick in our hearts. He was born with a kind heart, a sensitive nature, and a deep love for others. Rick was deeply spiritual, always expressing gratitude to God for his blessings and praying for those around him. He cherished time spent with family, friends, and animals, which brought him great joy.
Rick had a lifelong passion for horses, and we are proud of his accomplishments as a professional thoroughbred jockey and trainer. His love for horses was something he eagerly shared with family and friends, and reminiscing about his "hay days" always brought a smile to his face.
A true sports enthusiast, Rick especially loved horse racing, sometimes placing a little wager to make it more exciting. As a Michigan native, he was a loyal fan of the Detroit Lions, Tigers, Pistons, and Red Wings, and also followed his beloved University of Michigan Wolverines. In recent years, he developed an interest in soccer. His hobbies included fishing, golfing and playing pool. Rick also loved gardening, particularly the simple pleasure of picking and enjoying fresh tomatoes.
He was preceded in death by his infant daughter, Josette; his father, Richard Eugene Slomkowski Sr.; and his younger brother and best friend, Leon, whom he missed everyday since his passing.
Rick is survived by his loving children: Erick Slomkowski (Chelsie), Theresa Slomkowski, and Christopher Slomkowski, as well as his stepson, Jacob. He was the proud grandfather of Elizabeth, Jovie, Cora, and Christian. His passing has left a deep void in the life of his mother, Frances Theresa Vifor, whom he cherished beyond measure.
He will always be remembered with love by his heartbroken sisters, Renee Catalano (Wayne) and Vicki Feuchtwanger (Jerry), as well as a long list of aunts, cousins, nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends. Rick also leaves behind his beloved YorkiePoo, Lele, who he loved taking on walks and spending time with.
We find comfort in knowing that Rick’s strong faith assures his reunion with Jesus and those he loved who have gone before him.
A Memorial Mass will be held at 10:00 AM (entrance begins at 9:30 a.m.) on Monday, October 21, 2024, at St. Vincent Ferrer Catholic Church, 28353 Herbert Street, Madison Heights, MI 48071. A gathering will follow in the church hall.
In lieu of flowers, we respectfully request donations be made in Rick’s name to any of the following organizations:
SAR K9 CO-OP, INC. This nonprofit volunteer organization, based in Fairview Heights, IL, spent days searching for Rick with their search dogs while he was missing. They rely entirely on donations to continue their important work. https://www.facebook.com/SARK9COOPINC?mibextid=LQQJ4d
Alzheimer’s Association Donations support research and assistance for those suffering from Alzheimer’s disease, a cause close to Rick’s heart as his mother, Frances, is affected by it. Alzheimer's Association | Donate to Fight Alzheimer's Disease
Thoroughbred Charities of AmericaThis organization provides grants to nonprofit organizations supporting thoroughbreds and those who care for them, in honor of Rick’s love and dedication to horses. https://www.tca.org/
Final arrangements were lovingly entrusted to Southern Cremation and Burial Services of Murphysboro, Illinois.
Monday, October 21, 2024
Starts at 10:00 am (Eastern time)
St. Vincent Ferrer Catholic Church
Visits: 870
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the
Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Service map data © OpenStreetMap contributors