LODI - Richard Verlyn “Rich” Rindle, age 70, passed away Thursday, May 14, 2026, at Agrace in Fitchburg after a short battle with Leukemia.

Growing up on the farm, Rich was a lifelong resident of Lodi and a member of the Lodi High School class of 1973. He had fond memories of playing basketball, football and baseball and had many stories of mischief. For a couple of years, Rich lived in Rockford, Ill., where his love of stock car racing started. For the rest of his life, Rich spent countless hours building models, enjoying NASCAR and buying every car magazine he could find.

Rich worked for Atlas Van Lines for more than 30 years and loved being in the tractor trailer. In his over 2 million safe driving miles, Rich saw the entire country, but his favorite trips were when his kids travelled with him. Rich's greatest professional accomplishment was being awarded Driver of the Year with Atlas before retiring from long-haul driving. When he came off the road, he found a second family with EC Moving and Storage. Most recently he finished out his career with Long Trucking, finding great friendship with Al and Julie Long. He worked until he could no longer drive.

Rich’s biggest joy in his life was his family, most importantly his children and grandchildren. Rich would light up when any of his kids or grandkids entered the room.

Rich is survived by his children, Ashley (Clint) Kempfer, Holly Ternes, Alyssa (Carter) Jorgensen, Nathan Rindle, Kati Kutka, Nathan (Becky) Morter and Andrew Morter; and 13 grandchildren, Claire, Miles, Kaycen, Addison, Destiny, Trey, Jalynn, Gage, Kamren, Brooklen, Easten, Westen and soon-to-be granddaughter, Kinley.

Rich is further survived by sisters, Sharon Wadleigh and Ruth Mertens; brother, Ronald Rindle; along with nieces, Connie Mertens and Christine Rindle. Rich was preceded in death by his parents, Verlyn and Marian; brother-in-law, Wayne; sister-in-law, Vickie; and beloved friend, Merwyn.

Rich didn’t want “a big fuss,” just a burger and a beer so friends and family can catch up and share stories. With respect to his wishes, a celebration of life will be held at KD'S BAR AND GRILL, N1434 Fair St., Lodi, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Sunday, June 14, 2026.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in Rich's name to Agrace for their incredible care and support.

Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.

Gunderson Lodi
Funeral & Cremation Care
157 S. Main St.
(608) 592-3201

Richard Rindle

May 28, 1955 - May 14, 2026

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