Rick's Celebration of Life has been postponed until a future safe date can be set.On February 7, 2020 Richard Dean Huffman was called to join his Heavenly Father. He was preceded in death by his daughter Meredith Anne and his parents Dean and Helen Huffman.
He leaves his wife Sharyn Marie (Wolph) Huffman, his daughter Tasha Marie Carson and many loving relatives and friends.
Rick was born on October 9th, 1945 in Toledo, Ohio. He graduated from the University of Toledo where he earned a double major degree in Science and in Literature, all while working full time at night for the C&O Railroad.
In 1966 Rick married Sharyn Wolph, who would become his lifelong partner and best friend. Together they joined the Peace Corps in 1968, sharing their passion for humanitarian service working alongside the Afghan people. Rick led a life of service through active participation in his church, St. Francis in the Fields Episcopal Church, civic organizations and through his work on the board at Siloam (HIV and Aid Wellness Center).
Rick had a successful career in the railroad industry. In 1970, Chessie System (C&O and B&O railroads combined), invited Rick to participate in a year long elite management training program. From 1973-1975 Rick worked for USRA (United States Railway Association) which was an intense analysis of 21 railroads, which combined were losing over one million dollars a day. This study spurred the birth of Conrail (formally the Consolidated Rail Corporation).
After 12 moves with his family, he and Sharyn settled in the Philadelphia area and raised their family. Rick was active in his daughters' activities, especially when it came to coaching softball. After nearly 30 years, Rick retired from Conrail. During his retirement he enjoyed playing golf, traveling with Sharyn and enjoying time with family and friends. He was a devout Episcopalian and volunteered generously of his time.
His greatest joys were his beloved children, Tasha (Scott) Carson, and Meredith (Andy Deignan). Rick was a devoted grandfather to his 6 grandchildren - Dean, Ryan, Jesse, Tai, Naomi, and Keane. Rick leaves behind a legacy of love through his sisters Jan (Tom) Berry and Joan (Jim) Johnson, and brothers James (Sue, dec.) Huffman, Robert (Tracy) Huffman and David (Christine) Huffman. He will be greatly missed by all whose lives he touched.
His graveside service will be celebrated at St. Francis-in-the-Fields Episcopal Church, 689 Sugartown Road, Malvern, PA 19355, on Friday, Feb.14 at 10:30 AM.
Rick's Celebration of Life has been postponed until a future safe date can be set.
A huge thank you to all for the many prayers, flowers, and prayers.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Penn Medicine Hospice.