Richard Allen Rooks

Richard Allen Rooks, 48, of Gnadenhutten, went home to be with the Lord, Tuesday September 27, 2005 at his home with his wife by his side. His ultimate goal for this life was realized when Jesus called him home. Richard has now heard the words he has so long awaited for, “Well done, thy good and faithful servant.”Richard was born December 28, 1956, in Dover, O. to George and Eula Rooks of Gnadenhutten. He is also survived by a brother, George (Traci) Rooks of Gnadenhutten; two sisters, Marguerite Slagle of New Philadelphia, and Marsha Harrington, of Gnadenhutten. He married his high school sweetheart, the former Carrie R. Stout on April 24, 1976 with whom he celebrated 29 years of marriage. Their marriage brought them the joy of two children; Amanda Rooks Norman and fiancé Michael Heil, and Adam Richard (Kayla) Rooks, all of Gnadenhutten; three grandchildren who were his pride and joy in this life, Madison Nicole and Grace Elizabeth Norman, and Adam Richard Rooks, Jr. Carrie’s family was also his family and he will be missed by his father-in-law, Gary Stout. He was also a special brother-in-law to Robert and Cheryl Haver, William and Holly Stout, Bryan and Nyki Stout, and Heather and Dwight Coutwright. “Uncle Richard” has many beloved nieces and nephews. Richard was a member of the Rush Community Church of the Nazarene, where he served as Sunday School Superintendent for many years. He was an avid follower of all of his children’s activities, and was a leader in many of the organizations in which they participated including: Boy Scouts of America, Band Boosters, Bible Quizzing Director, Church Youth leader, and Little League. Richard was the General Manager of Huebner Chevrolet in Carrollton for 21 years. He loved his work and it showed. His hobbies included both fishing and hunting, and he especially enjoyed the many trips he shared with his family. He had a passion for life, and shared it with all who knew him. He has many devoted family members and friends that will miss him greatly, but his influence on their lives will live on forever. This man is truly loved by many.Visitation will be held Thursday from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. at the Linn-Hert-Geib Funeral Home & Crematory in New Philadelphia. A celebration of Richard’s life will be held Friday at 11:00 am with visitation one hour prior to the service at the Rush Community Church of the Nazarene, 4941 Rush Rd SE, Uhrichsville, O. with Pastor Douglas Downs officiating. Burial will follow the service in Gnadenhutten Cemetery. A reception will be held in the church social hall following the committal service.Richard has requested that memorial contributions be made to Rush Community Church of the Nazarene, 4941 Rush Church Rd SE, Uhrichsville, OH 44683.