Rick “Teddy Bear” Peconga, 59, of Warsaw, Ind., passed away at 11:55 a.m. Monday, July 8, 2013, in his residence.

On Nov. 9, 1953, he was born in Columbia City, Ind., to Peter Joseph and Violet May (Sproat) Peconga. He married Brenda Rhodes on Nov. 14, 1987, in Pierceton, Ind., who preceded him in death on July 8, 2011.

Living most of his life in Kosciusko County, Rick worked as a truck driver for various companies. He was a former member of American Legion Post #258, Pierceton and was active with Rendevouz, which performed pre-1840 reenactments. Rick was also a member of The Miami Nation of Indians of Indiana.

He is survived by four children: Glenn (Martha) Smith, Pierceton, Ind.; Mishelle (Ronnie) Jarrell, Pierceton; Wendy Kline, Milford, Ind.; and Mindy (Shawn Keene) Howard, Kimmell, Ind.; two brothers: Mike Peconga, Peru, Ind.; and Ronnie Peconga, Warsaw; two sisters: Rae Remington, Virginia; and Rox Gayheart, Warsaw; 12 grandchildren, three great-grandchildren and numerous nephews and nieces.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, a grandchild and a nephew.

Visitation will be from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. Monday, July 15, at the funeral chapel. A funeral service will be at 11 a.m. Monday, July 15, at McHatton-Sadler Funeral Chapel, Warsaw. Burial will be in Hillcrest Cemetery, Pierceton.

Memorial contributions may be made to Rick Peconga Funeral Fund, C/o McHatton-Sadler Funeral Chapel, 2290 Provident Court, Warsaw, IN 46580.

To leave condolences go to the McHatton-Sadler Funeral Chapel website.