Rick Hisel

Richard Hisel, aged 71, passed away peacefully on August 6th 2026. A proud native son of Jessamine County, he was raised among the farms and fields of Catnip Hill Road before dedicating his adult life to courageous service and to innovation.

As a firefighter with a distinguished 18-year career in the Lexington Fire Department, he faced down flames in order to save the lives of those in danger. After retiring as a Lieutenant, his second career was that of an engineering entrepreneur in the field of technical fabrication. Driven by a passion for problem-solving, his work and innovations spanned the fields of medicine, automotive manufacturing and groundbreaking battlefield protection for American service members.

Forever a towering, steadfast figure in the lives of those who loved him, he wore his heart on his sleeve and had a deep faith in Christ. He loved his dogs, he cared for people and he rarely finished a conversation without an assuring reminder that “Jesus loves you and I do too.”

Richard’s memory will be cherished by his wife; his stepson; his brother, Kevin (Sherry); his nephew, Tyler (Rachel); his grandnephews, Liam and Miles; his aunt Polly and his many cousins, as well as his wide circle of friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents Lucien and Margaret Hisel.

A gathering of family and friends will be 11am-1pm Tuesday, August 11, 2026 at Clark Legacy Center-Brannon Crossing followed by a graveside service at 1:30pm at Bluegrass Memorial Gardens.  In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Alzheimer’s Association at Alzheimer's Association