Zachary Paul Rhykerd

Zachary Paul Rhykerd, (Woodman), 38, of Altoona, born on March 28,1983 died to the all too common death by overdose on June 6, 2021. He was the beloved son of Scott and Christy (Burget) Rhykerd, and grandson of William and Marjorie Burget, The fun-loving brother to Kari Blake (Neil), Jessica Tryninewski (Josh) and Jarod Rhykerd, goofy but fun uncle to his 6 nieces and nephews.  What he loved most was being called “DADDY” by 3 beautiful daughters, Briella, Brynn, and Ariah. Preceded in death by his grandparents, Paul and Gladys Rhykerd.
  Zach loved spending time in his garage that he lovingly called “Woodmans Wood Shop”, where he displayed his many unique collectibles and did woodworking, always turning trash into treasure.
  The last 20 years Zach struggled and fought so hard against addiction and we repeatedly saw God’s hand of mercy. God’s mercy was no less present on Sunday in his death. His last two months were spent in rehab where he made friends, and shared about Jesus as his Savior and how  important his faith was to him.  He also shared with them his struggle with addiction.  Addiction stole those 20 years not to mention his future hopes and dreams with his beloved children, family and friends.  If you know someone in this struggle too, be gentle with them, love them and point them to Jesus, because now the only thing that mattered about Zach’s life is his faith in Christ that will matter for all eternity.

Friends will be received from 11am-2pm with a 2pm service Saturday, June 12, 2021 at New Life Alliance Church, 2879 Everett Rd, East Freedom, PA 16637, with Pastor Ed Jelleff officiating. Arrangements by Mauk and Yates Funeral Home, Inc. 


In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to a www.gofundme.com for a trust fund for his daughters.  https://gofund.me/bb63737f