Our DHS '71 classmate, Eric "Rick" Charles Wartmann, passed away suddenly and peacefully at home on Monday August 19th, 2024, at the age of 71

Rick will be remembered by all who met him for his outgoing personality and his positive outlook on life. His gift to gab and impressive knowledge of topics far and wide enabled him to converse freely with all who met him.

Originally born in Covington, Kentucky where most of his extended family still reside, his family moved to Dearborn where he lived his entire life. After moving at the age of eleven, he became a fan of the Detroit Tigers. While his baseball knowledge extended across all teams in the league, he had always remained a loyal Tigers fan. This even included attending the Tigers 1968 World Series games. He was a loyal supporter of the team for decades thereafter and enjoyed attending games until his final days.

As a teenager, Rick and his father joined the Livonia Metro Blind Bowlers league and was one of the longest members of the league. Currently the league Vice President, he participated in local league play and was always eager to share his score and was very excited when he won money! He was able to travel to State, Midwest and National tournaments with the support of the many sighted bowlers who participate in the league. Members of the league were lifelong friends.

After Rick graduated from Dearborn High School, he went on to continue his studies at Western Michigan University and earned a degree in Spanish. He enjoyed using the language, including freelance work in Spanish translation and when he was traveling, especially at many ports in Mexico while cruising.

Rick retired from the Department of Veteran's Affairs at the VA Regional Office in Detroit after 25 years of service. His job involved transcribing court proceedings of veterans applying for disability. He remained in touch with many of his coworkers after his retirement.

Rick, Donetta and Ed were called the "Three Musketeers", they enabled Rick to live life to the fullest. This included countless Detroit Tiger games, embracing his love of Star Wars, enjoying the "Lake Life", traveling, going on cruises, going to the movies, frequent visits to Frankenmuth, seeing the Rolling Stones in concert and riding a Harley motorcycle. 

Rick is survived by his sister Deborah (Scott) Chamberland, his niece, Elizabeth Chamberland (Chris Emery), nephew, Alexander Chamberland, his very close friends Ed & Donetta and many cousins in Kentucky.

Rick is preceded in death by his mom, Malva and dad, Edward Wartmann. 

Rick was able to live such a full and active life in large part thanks to his friends and community. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

Rick has been entrusted into the care of Howe-Peterson Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Dearborn location, 22546 Michigan Avenue, 48124, 313-561-1500

Family has had a private family farewell at the funeral home.

Rick's wishes were to have donations in his memory made to:

Braille Institute of America, Inc.
741 N. Vermont Avenue
Los Angeles, CA 90029
800-272-4553
https://brailleinstitute.org

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Eric Wartmann and Linda Sagan - DHS '71 40th Reunion on Saturday, August 6, 2011

Jan Mitchell and Eric Wartmann - DHS '71 40th Reunion on Saturday, August 6, 2011

1971 DHS Pioneer Yearbook Senior Year picture - Fall 1970

1970 DHS Pioneer Yearbook Junior Year picture - Fall 1969

1969 DHS Pioneer Yearbook Sophomore Year picture - Fall 1968

https://www.howepeterson.com/obituary/eric-rick-wartmann