Michael Jay Rice

Michael Jay Rice of Perrysburg, OH died at his home Saturday evening February 1, 2014. He was born December 8, 1949 in Saint Joseph, Missouri to Richard and Dorothy Ann (Dishman) Rice. Michael was a 1967 graduate of Central High School in Missouri and had been employed as a lab technician for Owens-Illinois for nineteen years, retiring in 2008. He was an avid reader and a history buff who was well versed in many topics. As an accomplished musician, Michael traveled the country playing the harmonica with various bluegrass bands. After moving to Ohio in 1987, he played with Bob White and the “Candy Mountain Express” and had also toured with Bill Monroe. Michael is survived by three sisters, Nancy Kurth of Tigard, Oregon, Sybil Thompson of Cameron, Missouri and Lisa Woolridge of Columbia, Missouri; three brothers, John Rice of St. Joseph, Missouri, Daniel Rice of Overland Park, Kansas, and Scott Smith of Republic, Missouri; nine nephews; two stepnephews and three great-nieces. He was preceded in death by his wife, Nina Hutton, and his mother. He is also survived by his significant other and his constant companion, Lori Vincent, and welcomed her children as his own; Veronica (Brian) Camargo and Dusti (Brad) Hedeman. He was also known as “Papa Michael” to Vinnie, Minnie and Dashiell whom he loved more than life itself and to whom looked forward to every visit. These visits included making up songs with Minnie or being “Dr. Mike” to her many dolls, and playing music for Vinnie, just to watch him dance. His many friends came of all ages. His kindness and generosity were felt by all who knew him. Michael was a consummate artist, philosopher and humanitarian. “Physical strength is measured by what we can carry, spiritual strength, by what we can bear”. (author unknown) A memorial service for Michael for will be held at 10:00 AM this Saturday, February 8, 2014 at the Witzler-Shank Funeral Home, 222 E. South Boundary Street, Perrysburg, Ohio 43551 (419-874-3133).