Richard J. Wecker

Richard “Rich” Joseph Wecker, 65, of Toms River, New Jersey, died peacefully in his sleep at home on Sunday, August 17, 2025. 

Born September 16, 1959, in Bellmawr, New Jersey, to German immigrants Magdalena (nee Schupka) and Reinhold Wecker. He is survived by his three children: Erica Ann (Chris) Casella of Voorhees, Richard Charles, and Michelle (Russell) Gurney of Cherry Hill; his sister Christa (Gregory) Fleck and niece Karin Danella of Wexford, Pennsylvania; four grandchildren Zoey, Parker, Patrick, and Francis; and extended Ulmer family in Massachusetts. He was predeceased by his sister, Larissa (Harry) of Taganrog, Russia. 

Rich graduated from Triton Regional High School, class of 1977. He continued his education, earning vocational certificates in trades such as Welding, Pipefitting, Electrical, and Machinery. He proudly worked as a Maintenance Mechanic and Machinist for nearly five decades, most recently as an Engineering Support contractor for the U.S. Navy. Beyond his work, Rich’s true passion was photography, earning his professional certification in 1996 and bringing joy to countless weddings and family events with his artistry. Rich loved the simple pleasures in life: a cold beer on the beach, fishing in Barnegat Bay with his son, Ricky, riding his bike through Island Beach State Park, and tending to his garden. He also loved to travel, and some of his happiest memories were the vacations he shared with his beloved sister and brother-in-law. While he treasured time with all of his children and grandchildren, it was often through his daughters that he stayed most connected, sharing countless holidays, birthdays, and family celebrations with them. Rich lived life with warmth, laughter, and a constant smile—a man who never seemed to want to be anywhere else but right where he was. For him, the beach was more than a favorite place; it was a reflection of his spirit, a reminder of an endless summer that will live on in the hearts of those who loved him.

Funeral services will be private. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Friends of Island Beach State Park at www.friendsofibsp.org 

Arrangements by Jackson Funeral Home, Haddon Township, NJ www.jacksonfh.net