Cheslie "Rick" Poole

Cheslie Richard Poole, known to friends and family as Rick, passed away peacefully at the age of 68 on March 21, 2026, surrounded by loved ones at his daughter’s home in Fredericktown. Born on April 19, 1957, in Salem, he was the son of the late Cheslie Brown and Bertha Mae (Counts) Poole. 

Rick lived a full and dedicated life, where he was known for his incredible skills as a mechanic. Cars were his passion, and he was always tinkering, fixing, or dreaming about them. His love for the road extended beyond the garage; prior to his health concerns, he cherished traveling with his wife Carla and enjoyed camping and fishing whenever he had the chance. 

An avid wrestling fan, Rick looked forward to Sunday mornings when he could catch the latest matches. He was also a die-hard Jeff Gordon and NASCAR supporter. Rick was a true family man—a loving husband, a devoted daddy, a proud papa and great-grandpa who will be deeply missed.

He was preceded in death by his parents; son, Nicholas in infancy; sisters Big Judy, Penny and Judy Kay; brothers, Bob, Ronnie, Dwayne and Bill Poole; and precious fur baby, Heidi.

Rick is survived by his wife of 45 years, Carla (Rulo) Poole; children, Amanda Barton, Jessica Trautwein and husband Rick, Samuel “Sam” Poole and wife Lydia, Danielle Poole; grandchildren, Christine, Kaelyn, Erich, Deiree, Kimberly, Jacob, Ryan, Levi, Gracie, Drake, Miah, Ally, Nellie and Mason; great-grandchildren, Amelia, Rosie and Ollie; one brother, Gene Sellers and wife Becky; several other family members and friends also survive.

Visitation will be held at C.Z. Boyer and Son Funeral Home in Desloge, Thursday, March 26, 2026, from 4:00 PM until the time of service at 6:00 PM. Pastor Alan David will be officiating. Memorials may be directed to the National Kidney Foundation.

Rick will be remembered for his warm spirit and the joy he brought to everyone’s lives.