CONNEAUT — James R. Richards, 69, formerly of Conneaut, passed away on Friday, Jan. 25, 2013, after a brave battle with cancer. A very sweet man who brought a smile to the face of everyone he met, he will be sadly missed by all who knew him.
Jim was born in Buffalo, N.Y. on Nov. 14, 1943, and spent his childhood and adult life in Conneaut. He attended St. Mary’s elementary school and graduated from Conneaut High in 1961. After serving in the U.S. Army, Jim began work at the Pittsburgh and Conneaut (P&C) Dock Company in 1966. He married his lifelong partner, Eleanor (Palagyi) on Oct. 17, 1970.
After retiring with 37 years of service from the Dock Company in 2003, he spent winters in Indian Land, S.C. near his daughter and son-in-law. Jim and Eleanor moved there full-time in 2012.
In his younger years, Jim loved to play baseball, softball, bowl and play golf. He particularly loved to bowl and golf, and competed in tournaments for several decades. During his time in South Carolina, Jim was an avid card player belonging to several card clubs where he was well liked.
He was a member of the American Legion and attended St. Frances Cabrini Church in Conneaut, and Our Lady of Grace in South Carolina.
Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Charles “Phil” and Mary (Reiner) Richards; and his brother and sister-in-law. Charles W. “Chuck” and Judy Richards.
In addition to his beloved wife, Eleanor (Palagyi) Richards, Jim is survived by his daughter and son-in law, Lisa and Rodric Lenhart of Charlotte, N.C.; and nieces and several cousins.
Calling Hours will be held from 9 to 11:30 a.m., Saturday, Feb. 2nd, at RAISIAN FAMILY FUNERAL HOME, 581 Harbor St., Conneaut.
Mass of the Christian Burial will follow at 12 Noon, Saturday, at St. Frances Cabrini Church, 744 Mill St., Conneaut, with Father Philip Miller, of STM/ SFC Parish, presiding. Burial will follow in St. Joseph Cemetery, Conneaut, where the American Legion Honor Squad will conduct Military Honors.
In lieu of flowers, the family request that donations be made in his memory to Our Lady of Grace Building Fund, 7031 Waxhaw Highway, Lancaster, S.C. 29720, Wayne T. Patrick Hospice House of Rock Hill, 2275 India Hook Road, Rock Hill, S.C. 29732, or to the charity of your choice. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.
Obituary and condolences at www.raisianfuneralhome.com and starbeacon.com.
