With profound sorrow, we announce the passing of Frank Rickey Stapleton, affectionately known as Rick, on March 30, 2025.

Born in Portsmouth, Ohio, on Nov. 9, 1952, Rick was an ambitious and dedicated individual who spent his life in service to others.

A resident of Frankton, Indiana, he was a loving husband, father, and grandfather. As a railroad track consultant, he exhibited a commendable dedication to his work until his retirement in 2019. He was well-respected and loved by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Rick started his career with the railroad right out of high school but continued to work at his education until earning his PhD. He attended Rochville University where he graduated in 1985 with a Master of Science in Civil Engineering, and then a Doctor of Science in Railway Engineering in 2005. Rick was dedicated to his trade and earned several awards of Distinction and several awards of Excellence.

Outside of his career, Rick was a man of many passions. He loved the outdoors and spent countless hours fishing and hunting. His love for Westerns was well-known, and he enjoyed all kinds of music, especially his dad singing bluegrass. His dedication to his community was evident in his involvement in the Sons of the American Legion, the Elks Lodge, and his several years of involvement as a Boy Scouts of America Leader.

Above all, Rick was a family man. His loving wife, Parthena "Diann," and their children and grandchildren were his greatest joys.

He is survived by his wife, Parthena "Diann" Stapleton; sons, Frank (Jennifer) Stapleton II and David Stapleton; and grandchildren, Victoria, Gabriel, Adriana, Elijah, Asher, Caleb, Ilana, and Sammy.

He was preceded in death by his son, Vincent Stapleton; his father, Harvey Hurt; his mother, Eulah Henesy; and his grandson, Lukus J. Stapleton.

Visitation will be held for Rick at Harper & Dunnichay Funeral Home, 305 E. Sigler St., Frankton, on Friday, April 4, 2025, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. with the funeral service immediately following at 1 p.m.

We take comfort in the words of Matthew 5:4, "Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted." Rick's legacy will continue through his family and the many lives he touched with his funny and loving spirit.

We encourage those who knew Rick to leave memories and upload photos to his memorial page. Your tributes will serve as a comforting reminder of the life he lived, the people he loved, and the laughter he shared with us all.