Rick was born on October 16, 1962, at Bates County Memorial Hospital in Butler, Missouri, to Jack and Patsy Zellmer. He graduated from Butler High School with the Class of 1981 and went on to attend the University of Missouri–Columbia, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Agriculture in 1984. He later received a Master of Business Administration degree from the University of Rochester in Rochester, New York. While at Mizzou, Rick was a member of the Alpha Gamma Sigma fraternity, where he formed lifelong friendships.
Rick worked for several years in New York and Connecticut. During that time, he met and married Jill Rosenbluth, and together they had a son, Jacob Cameron (“Jake”) Zellmer. Following their divorce, Rick returned to Missouri and later settled in Texas, where he purchased land, raised crops, and fully embraced the Texas life he loved.
In December of 2023, Rick was diagnosed with cancer. He faced his illness with strength and determination and received a clear PET scan in November of 2025. The family extends heartfelt gratitude to all who supported Rick during this time—those who stayed in touch, offered prayers, accompanied him to medical appointments, and provided care during his chemotherapy and radiation treatments, while also supporting his family.
Rick is survived by his son, Jake Zellmer; his mother, Patsy Zellmer; his sister, Pam Zellmer and her husband, Rex; his brother, Mike Zellmer; and numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, and many dear friends.
He was preceded in death by his father, Jack Zellmer.
A memorial service will be held in Butler, Missouri, in the spring. The date will be announced at a later time.
