It is with great sadness and heavy hearts that our family announces the passing of Rick W. Ulrich of Ormond Beach, Florida, on January 16, 2026, at the age of 73.

Rick was born in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, on July 21, 1952. He graduated from Oshkosh West High School in 1970 and went on to study Machine and Mechanics at Oshkosh Technical School. He proudly served in the National Guard before beginning a long and successful career in the marine industry.

Rick went on to work for Mercury Marine, where he discovered his true calling. He became a master builder of high‑performance race engines for offshore boating enthusiasts. His exceptional skill and precision earned him a reputation as one of the very best in his craft, leading top offshore racing competitors to seek him out to build their engines.

In 1985, Rick built four engines that powered a remarkable achievement: covering 1,257 miles in just over five hours in the famous Miami–New York race. This record‑setting performance helped racer George Morales secure a historic victory. Morales later told Sports Illustrated that he would not have won without the engines Rick built—an enduring testament to Rick’s expertise and dedication. Rick devoted 45 years to the field he held dear, earning the respect of colleagues and leaving a meaningful contribution to the sport.

But beyond his work and accomplishments, Rick was simply Rick—a man who loved his family, loved to travel, and enjoyed seeing the world. He had a special love for Florida and especially Key West, where he found great joy in its beautiful sunsets.

Rick’s greatest pride was his family. He is survived by his daughter, Rebecca Abreu, and his beloved grandsons, Maxwell and Zakary Abreu, who brought him great joy. He is also survived by his brothers, Philip and Timothy Ulrich, his nephew, Kristopher Ulrich, and his ex-wife, Deborah Ulrich, with whom he shared many years and memories and raised a daughter they were both deeply proud of.

Rick will be remembered not for the things he accomplished, but for the memories he made and the people he loved. His family will carry those memories with them always.

He will be deeply missed and forever loved.