Rick L. Slagle

Rick L. Slagle, age 65, of Maynard, Massachusetts, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, February 24, 2026. He was the loving and beloved husband of Darlene-Marie (Saxelin) Slagle.

Rick was born in Landstuhl, Germany, on May 17, 1960, the son of the late Judge W. and Amalie (Kustermann) Slagle. Rick was raised and completed his early education in Lockport, Illinois. He attended Triton College in River Grove, Illinois, earning a specialty degree in Laser/Electro-Optics Technology, class of 1985. Rick continued his education at Northeastern University in Boston, Massachusetts, earning his B.Sc. Degree in Electrical Engineering, class of 1995. Rick and Darlene married on May 26, 1990, settling in Acton, and moving to Maynard in 2002.

Rick worked as a self-employed laser engineer consultant, starting his own company, Technical Solutions Marketing, in 2013, and retiring in 2025. Before starting his own business, Rick worked for a university research lab as well as large laser companies, both national and international.

Rick’s passions included his family, and the love for his great niece, Madison, changed his life. He pursued photography, stained glass and woodworking. He enjoyed music, especially Rock and Roll, and both old and fast cars. Rick and Darlene have been members of the Museum of Fine Arts since 1990 and never missed an Edward Hopper exhibit, Rick’s favorite artist. Rick was an animal lover and took great delight in the wonderful terriers that were part of his life. Significant was his favorite, Anna, who recently passed to be waiting for him on the other side. He was an ACLU member and raised his voice to support democracy all of his life.

Rick is survived by his wife, Darlene-Marie Slagle of Maynard, MA; his daughter, Cassie Messmer and partner Amy Nomejko of Belmont, MA; his beloved nieces, Karolyn Keiken of Wheaton, IL; Patty and Madison Shepard of Marion, IL; and his dear cousin, Karen Krzos of Westmont, IL. Rick is also survived by several aunts and cousins from his father’s side of the family as well as cousins in Germany from his mother’s side of the family. His lifelong friend, Chuck Engelke, was like a brother to Rick, and they shared many old friends in the Midwest. Chuck recently referred to that group as the “Rogues’ Gallery.” All of these friends held a special place in Rick’s heart.

A private at home celebration of life will be held in his honor.

Gifts in his memory are encouraged to be made to Save the Children https://www.sos-usa.org/take-action/ways-to-give/forms/donation-form. This was Rick’s favorite charity. On more than one occasion, Rick offered to match donations with his personal funds for his friends and colleagues, who would donate during the holiday season.