Richard Allen “Rick” Manz, 68, passed away Feb. 12, 2025, after a short battle with a rare cancer.
Rick was born in Janesville, Wisconsin, on March 6, 1956. His family moved to Wrightwood in 1965, where he was raised with his four siblings. He helped run the riding stables in Wrightwood with his family.
In the early 1970s, Rick worked at Rady’s Automotive and the 76 gas station. He also served as a paid-call firefighter and EMT with the Wrightwood Fire Department. While working at Rady’s 76, he met Cindy Rady, and they married in 1975.
For more than 30 years, Rick owned and operated Rick’s Auto in Phelan. He was known for being a good, honest and caring mechanic. Rick made many friends.
Rick was preceded in death by his father, Robert; his mother, Alma; and his sisters Liz and Judy.
He is survived by his wife, Cindy; his son, Robert (Sherri); his daughter, Kacie (Juan); his brothers Mike (Mary) and Robert (Terry); seven grandchildren, Makaila, Kara, Gyanna, Mikayla, Mykala, Brooklynn and Abby; and three great-grandchildren, Emrie, Waylon and Willow.
Rick also leaves behind a brother-in-law, several sisters-in-law, and many nieces, nephews and friends. He was a good man. We will all miss him deeply.
In lieu of flowers please send cards to Rick’s Auto at 4686 Phelan Road, Phelan, CA 92371
