Roland Duke Ridgeway Jr.
Roland Duke Ridgeway, Jr., 67 of Richwood, died unexpectedly Wednesday, April 9, 2014 at the Kobacker House in Columbus. He was born June 28, 1946 in Kenton to the late Roland Duke Sr. and Anna (Reese) Ridgeway.
He was a 1964 graduate of Richwood High School. A friend to all in the Richwood area, Duke was the 40 year owner of Ridgeway Trailers just outside of the village on State Route 47. A racer at heart, Duke was a big supporter of the Richwood area Gibson family racing ventures through the years. He saw many checkered flags with Jeff Gibson at the wheel of his 305 open wheel Sprint Car. Ridgeway actually started racing a 55 Chevrolet at Shady Bowl Speedway in the Hobby Stock, in the late 60s and early 70s, out of his garage on Franklin Street. From there, he started his privately owned business, putting his brand and trailers in many locations throughout the land. A welder at heart, there was nothing Duke could not do or figure out how to do.
He is survived by a son, Roland Todd Ridgeway, Marion; a grandson, Matthew Roland Ridgeway, Mt. Gilead; a brother, Rodney Ridgeway, Marion; and his long time companion and soul mate, Esther Gilbert, Richwood.
Funeral services will be Monday, April 14, 2014 at 11:00 AM at the Stofcheck-Ballinger Funeral Home, Richwood with Pastor Bill Wasserbeck officiating. Burial will follow in Claibourne Cemetery. Friends may call on Sunday from 2 to 4 PM at the funeral home in Richwood.
Memorial gifts may be made to North Union Athletic Boosters, 401 North Franklin Street, Richwood, OH 43344.
Condolences and remembrances may be expressed at www.stofcheck-ballinger.com
Stofcheck-Ballinger Funeral Home