03/13/2026
Rickey was beloved by all who knew him. Never one to mince words, he always wore his heart on his sleeve. He was a proud Chief Petty Officer (Retired) of the United States Navy. His accomplishments include multiple deployments during the Gulf War on board the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower and others during his 20-year Navy career. He served alongside some of the top military professionals at the Pentagon. He was a diehard Kansas City sports fan and was able to experience multiple titles over the years. His favorite hobbies included fishing, bowling, cooking and baseball. He loved his family and friends dearly. Rick was a loving son, brother, uncle, father, grandfather, and more recently, a great-grandfather. He will be sorely missed.
Rick is survived by his wife, Cheryl Lynn "Cheri" Swope, his son Gene Swope (Kimberly), his grandchildren Taylor, Aden and Vivyanne, and great-granddaughter Juliet, his brothers Terry Swope (Karen) and Carey Swope (Debbie), and his nephews Casey and Andrew.
A special thank you goes to St. Luke's Mid America Heart Institute, LVAD Clinic and St. Luke's Home Health who cared for Rickey for so many years. He had many friends and supporters there.
A celebration of life will be held at a later date.