Sheldon Lee “Doc” Risch, 86, of Liberty, died Saturday, October 10, 2026, at Miami Valley Hospital in Dayton, Ohio.

The only child of Elmer and Elsie Kuehn Risch, Doc was born December 23, 1939, in Wayne County, Indiana. After graduating from Short High School, he completed coursework in mechanics. A tenacious man of few words—and the occasional growl—Doc worked over the years as a railroad signal maintainer and for L.S. Byrd and Son, as an equipment operator, and as a mechanic for Philco-Ford, and College Corner Implement. After working all day, he spent his evenings farming his own land. Because the work seemed to be completed mysteriously overnight, he was affectionately known as the “ghost farmer.” By the 1970s, Doc’s exceptional skill in rebuilding engines had earned him a strong reputation. He opened his own shop and became a trusted resource for many, including local tractor pullers and circle-track racers. Everyone knew there wasn’t an engine Doc couldn’t handle. A few tractors, an occasional semi, or some type of diesel engine could usually be found around the farm awaiting his attention. With his nearly photographic memory, Doc never needed to label parts or take notes; he knew exactly where each piece belonged and how to reassemble it correctly. His love of mechanics and extensive knowledge will be deeply missed by his community, family, and friends.

Doc is survived by his children and their spouses: Damian L. and Dana Risch, Lisa and Kevin Poe; grandchildren: Dylan, Darah, Nicholas, Logan, Samantha, Rachel, Robyn, Benjamin, Joey, and Renee; nineteen great-grandchildren, many friends.

Doc is preceded in death by his parents Elmer and Elsie.

Friends and family may pay their respects on Thursday, October 15, 2026, from 5:00 p.m., until 7:00 p.m., at Showalter Blackwell Long Funeral Home, Fosdick Chapel, Liberty. The funeral service will be conducted on Friday, October 16, 2026, at 11:30 a.m. at the funeral home. Burial will follow at Calvary Cemetery.