Richard was born in New Castle, Pennsylvania in 1937. He served in the Navy and the Air Force. He later worked at Markley Communication Services and Bender Communications, retiring after 40 years of service. Following retirement, he remained active with and devoted to Grace Episcopal Church, where he was employed as a sexton, served on the vestry committee, and became an integral member of the food pantry.
Richard dearly loved his family. He also enjoyed birdwatching, reading, walking his beloved dog, Lou Lou, and sharing the company of his neighbors and McDonald’s coffee club friends. Everyone who knew him understood that he was one of a kind, could fix anything, and most importantly, had a heart of gold.
Richard leaves us with beautiful images from his years of amateur photography, happy memories of “the money tree” and of playing cowboys and dogcatcher with his grandchildren.
He is survived by his loving sister, Peggy Via; his children, Pamela (Paul) Smith, Rebecca Shaw (Leroy Smith), and David Vogus, all of whom will remember him as a man of peace and a source of strength. He is also survived by his cherished grandchildren, Mason, Lauren, Logan, Emily, Gwen, Caroline, Alex, Alexis; and many nieces; nephews; and wonderful friends.
The family would like to thank Richard’s invested healthcare professionals, Dr. Mary Gaeke, M. D.; the Mansfield VA Center; and the Ohio Health Hospice team.
At Richard’s request, a private service for immediate family was held Monday, August 19, 2024. This wishing to honor Richard’s memory may donate to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital (stjude.ort) or the Richland County Humane Society (adoptourstrays.com).
Wappner Funeral Directors-Ontario is honored to serve the Vogus family.
