Lt. Col. David L. Wrikeman, Youngstown, Ohio

Yahoo

28-04-2025

YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio (MyValleyTributes) – Lt. Col. David L. Wrikeman (Retired), 73, of Youngstown, Ohio, passed away unexpectedly at his home on Thursday, April 24, 2025.
David was born on September 15, 1951, in Youngstown, son of the late Clarence and Marie (Delpine) Wrikeman.
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He was involved in Boy Scouts of America throughout childhood and adolescence, loving the outdoors and later sharing the adventure with his son, Alex. He continued up to Eagle Scout and volunteered as a counselor at Camp Stambaugh through his college years. He was active in drama club, debate and choir during high school, letting his bright personality and contagious laughter touch those around him.
A 1969 graduate of Poland Seminary High School, David went on to earn his bachelor's degree in 1973 from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in New York. He was commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant after completing the ROTC program. He was an active member of the Phi Sigma Kappa fraternity, in which he enjoyed being his brothers' weekend cook.
On July 14, 1973 David married the love of his life, the former Michele Pollock. After meeting on a blind date they shared almost 52 years of marriage together, travelling, spending time with friends, and growing a beautiful family.
A parishioner of Holy Family Parish, David was committed to his community and well-known as a wine enthusiast who loved to share knowledge and educate others. As local small business owners, David and Michele took pride in running their shop Struthers Beer, Wine, and Spirits for 30 years. In addition to helping customers plan weddings and family events, David loved educating others on fine wine and spirits. He was a guest on local tv and radio as well as being a sponsor on WYSU throughout the years.
David honorably served in the United States Army for over 30 years, both on active duty and as a member of the Ohio National Guard. He retired as a Lieutenant Colonel and later worked for the U.S. Postal Service. He was especially passionate about his time in the Ohio National Guard, providing disaster relief and building schools in the U.S. and overseas. David and Michele were blessed with the opportunity to live in Germany and travel through Europe while he was in the Army. They created wonderful memories together and he always spoke fondly of the time they shared there.
One of David's greatest interests was American history, specifically military history. He loved sharing interesting facts as well as his own anecdotes from the Army and his youth. David was an enthusiastic member of the Lowellville Rod and Gun Club, where he organized matches and helped build a shooting range.
David's greatest joy came from his family. He treasured time spent with them, especially their trips to Lake Erie, Cedar Point, and the Outer Banks. He was a devoted husband, loving father, and proud grandfather. His grandkids looked forward to visits where Grampy would tell silly jokes, help build toys together and show them old cartoons. He was a life-long dog owner and lover, and always shared his bacon with his furry friends.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Michele, of Poland; his children, Alexander Wrikeman of Poland, and Katterli (Lee) Coloutes of Rocky River, Ohio; his adored grandchildren, Leo and Parker; his sister, Clarice Wrikeman of Poland; and his loyal dogs, Goose and Piper.
Family and friends may call on Thursday, May 1, 2025, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., and again on Friday, May 2, from 8:30 a.m. until the time of prayer service at 9:30 a.m., at Cunningham-Becker Funeral Home, 270 N. Main St., Poland, Ohio. A Mass of Christian burial will follow at 10:00 a.m. at Holy Family Parish, 2729 Center Rd., Poland, Ohio.
Condolences may be shared online at www.beckerobits.com.
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