Obituary of David Willard Rice

David Willard Rice was born on September 17, 1952 in Monroe from the union of Willard and Helen (Moore) Rice. He graduated from Monroe High School with the Class of 1970. David was employed as a heavy equipment operator for the railroad. Known by the name “Radio Rice Patty”, he had been a truck driver for Flat Out Trucking for more than twenty years and was very proud of his perfect driving record.

David Willard Rice, age 68, of Monroe, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, November 17, 2020 at Promedica Monroe Regional Hospital. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife: Novella Johnson and brother: Douglas Rice.

Left to cherish his memory are three sons; brother: Daniel Rice; several grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Family and friends may gather on Friday, November 20, 2020 from 12:00 a.m. until the time of the worship service celebrating his life at 2:00 p.m. at Merkle Funeral Service, South Monroe; 14567 S. Dixie Highway, Monroe, Michigan 48161 (734) 241-7070. Interment will follow at Roselawn Memorial Park.

Due to the Covid-19 pandemic and the State of Michigan’s mandates guests will be limited in number, face coverings will be required for entry and no food or beverages will be permitted in the building.