Richard L. Ankenbrandt

Richard "Tiny" Ankenbrandt died Monday, December 28, 2020, at St. Luke's Hospital in Maumee, Ohio, from complications related to COVID-19. He was 80 years old. Born February 5, 1940, in Maumee, to Joseph William "Joe" and Nellie Jane (Mackey) Ankenbrandt, Richard was the youngest of the family’s first five sons and one of 14 children altogether. His mother, Nellie, nicknamed him "Tiny" for his small stature — but that didn't last too long. He soon became the biggest of all nine brothers with a contrary nickname that lasted his lifetime. Tiny retired after 30 years of service as a foreman at Libby Owens Ford, Co. He also proudly served in the U.S. Coast Guard, where he met his first wife, Kathleen. He will be most remembered for his unforgettable smile, love of golf and motorcycle riding, and being one of Ohio State's biggest fans with all the household Buckeyes memorabilia to prove it. His greatest joy in life was becoming a father to his daughter, Emma. He was very proud of the young woman she has become. She and her mother, Stacey, will cherish his memory. Tiny is also survived by his siblings Mary Beaber (Joe), Marcia Miko (Steve), Jane, Ruth Bensch (Denny), Charlie (Mary Ann), Nancy, Tim (Sheri); sisters-in-law Judy, Chris and Jackie Ankenbrandt; and many nieces and nephews. Tiny was predeceased by his parents, Joe and Nellie; brothers, Tom (Dorothy), Ray, Bill, Bob (Sandy), John, Doug; first wife, Kathleen; nephews, Paul and Gary; and great-nephew, Zach. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Cremation Society of Toledo. A celebration of life will be planned later in 2021. While Tiny was cautious with COVID-19 and practiced safe distancing and other preventative measures, his life was cut short in less than two weeks from a positive coronavirus diagnosis. This unprecedented virus has taken the lives of many, and the family asks that friends and others please continue to wear a mask. As an active parishioner of Saint Joseph Catholic Church in Maumee, memorial donations may be made on his behalf for their window restoration project at their online giving site: stjosephmaumee.weshareonline.org/ws/opportunities/Memorials. The family would like to thank the medical and nursing staff at St. Luke's Hospital — particularly the staff in the emergency department, 3 East and ICC front. Thank you to Samantha, RN, who was by his side at the end.