Eric "Rick" Sheldon Elston, 73, was welcomed into his heavenly home on June 30, 2024. He was born on February 26, 1951 to the late Harold and Jane Elston. On August 26, 1968 he married his high school sweetheart, Karen Kay Shisler, who survives. They enjoyed almost 56 years of marriage.

Rick and Karen were blessed with three children; Jan (Bill) Skeldon, Judy (Gene) Wyse, and Dave Elston. God gave them nine beautiful grandchildren to cherish; Kenneth and Kristina (Jeremy) Skeldon; Kayla, Kelly, and Kaleb Wyse; and Ava, Addison, Alyssa, and Clayton Elston. He is also survived by one brother and two sisters.

Rick was a faithful Christian, husband, Dad, and Papa. He was a generous and fun-loving guy who loved to clown around, His favorite comedian to imitate was Red Skelton. Rick served his Savior faithfully by running a bus route, serving as a Deacon, Sunday School teacher, and youth group leader. He worked for General Motors for 33 years, and owned Rick's Refrigeration for 51 years. Rick will be greatly missed by his family and friends.

Friends and Family are welcome to attend visitation on Sunday, July 7th from 5:00 to 8:00 pm at Schaffer Funeral Home South, Lawson/Roessner Chapel (1753 S. Clinton Street) in Defiance. His Celebration of Life is at 11:00 am on Monday, July 8th at Free Christian Church in Continental, Ohio, with Pastor James Fry officiating. There will be one hour of additional visitation before the service. Rick will be laid to rest at Sherman Cemetery. Memorials are suggested to  St. Jude's Research Hospital, or Free Christian Church.