Richard Rita

Richard L. “Poo” Rita, 86, passed away early Thursday morning, October 20, 2011 at Hospice House in Ashland. Born April 10, 1925 in Crestline, he was the son of the late Luigi and Edith (Harris) Rita.

Richard was a very athletic man and was a Golden Gloves Boxer in his younger years. An avid collector of model trains, Richard was skilled at creating and building model train cars and enjoyed sharing his hobbies with those around him. He shared his passion for cars with his grandchildren, teaching them the many unique attributes of vehicles throughout the years.

Richard retired from Empire Detroit Steel and also owned and operated Rita Brothers Sporting Goods in Crestline. On April 20, 1943, he married Marcile Fry and was a devoted husband for their 68 wonderful years together. He and his wife enjoyed spending their weekends “Hawking” where they would drive around the countryside looking for hawks.

A true outdoor man, he thoroughly enjoyed fishing, hunting and target shooting. His many hobbies included playing cards and traveling, especially in the mountains. He enjoyed boating on Lake Erie with his family. His grandchildren were fascinated with the many stories he told and his legacy continues through the wonderful times shared with those he loved.

He leaves behind his loving wife, Marcile Rita; children, Diana (Michael) Tridico of Mansfield, Evelyn (Gary) Burnside of Galion and Rick (Raydene) Rita of Lexington; five grandchildren, Michael Todd (Judy) Tridico, Christine (John) Deibig, Eric Burnside, Jennifer (John Szabo) Rita and Missy Rita (Andy Wuchich); great-grandchildren, Michael and Sophie Tridico, Katie and Nathan Burnside, Zachary Deibig, and Cameron and Mila Wuchich; sister, Leola (James) Venterone; special friend, Jim Gleasner; and numerous nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by two brothers, George and Albert Rita; grandson, Rick Allen Tridico; and great-grandson, Sammy Tridico.

A funeral service will be held Monday, October 24, 2011 at 2:30 p.m. in the Ontario Home of Wappner Funeral Directors, 100 S. Lexington-Springmill Road. Rev. Don Trigg of Christ United Methodist Church will be conducting the service. Friends may visit from 1:30-2:30 p.m. at the funeral home. Burial will follow in Mansfield Memorial Park. Memorial contributions may be made to Montessori Fund/Msg. Dunn Foundation for the Sammy Tridico Scholarship Fund.