Casey Joe Rice, 46, a dedicated husband, loving father, steadfast son, passed away unexpectedly June 6, 2026. Casey lost his life in a tragic accident while serving his community on the Branch County Road Commission, working hard to maintain the roads and highways to ensure the safety of everyone who traveled them.
Visitation for family and friends will be held Thursday June 11 from 1:00-4:00 p.m. at Dutcher Funeral Home in Coldwater MI. A procession will follow the visitation at 4:00 p.m.
A meal and celebration will follow the procession. Family and friends are invited to continue sharing memories and celebrating Casey’s life.
Born New Year’s Eve, December 31, 1979, Casey brought a vibrant spark into the world that never faded. He spent his life fully dedicated to his wife and children.
An avid outdoorsman and family man, Casey’s greatest passions included traveling, spending weekends at the lake, watching his children compete in sports, hunting, fishing, golfing and especially farming or anything that involved using a John Deere tractor.
Casey lit up every room that he walked into, never making anyone feel left out or ignored. His laugh was infectious and his character never in question. He was strong yet gentle, tough yet fair. Everyone knew where they stood with Casey and also knew they could count on him to be there.
Casey was a hero to many during his lifetime, and he continued to be a hero in his passing. By donating his organs, he selflessly gave others a second chance at life. He will be remembered forever as a loving husband, father, son, brother, uncle, and beloved friend.
Casey is survived by his loving wife, Courtney Rice; his daughter, Rylee; and his son, Kolton. He is also survived by his mother and stepfather, Diana and Stan Albright; his parents-in-law, Phillip and Brenda Reneau; his sisters, Stahycee Smith, Tracy Simmons, and Noel (John) Karasek; his brother, Terry (Lori) Rice; his brother-in-law, Nicholas (Nikki) Greger; and many cherished aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, extended family members, and close friends.
Casey was preceded in death by his father, Lyle Rice; and his grandparents, Ray and Betty Risner, Frank and Marie Albright, and Merl and Catherine Rice.
In honor of Casey’s dedication to hard work and public service, a memorial scholarship is being established for skilled trades. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made via checks payable to Courtney Rice.
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