Richard A. Stoneman 1939-2023

Richard was born in Cleveland on March 13, 1939, and graduated from Farmington High School. Following high school, he attended Wilmington College, where he earned a degree in education.

Raised on a farm, Richard enjoyed participating in 4-H when he was growing up. The organization always held a special place in his heart, as it was how he met his wife Patty when they were crowned king and queen of the 4-H court. They were married Aug. 8, 1964, and had two children, Sherry and Bill.

He was a full-time dairy farmer and industrial arts teacher who inspired so many along the way. Richard also coached basketball and softball. In fact, he still kept up with his players, decades later, and always enjoyed telling stories from this time of his life.

Once he retired, Richard and Patty were able to travel. He enjoyed going on cruises with family and friends.

In his golden years, Richard spent his time doing what he loved most — creating countless memories with his family. During this period he got to watch his grandchildren grow up, never missing a milestone. Whether it was serving as a date for the annual father-daughter dances, being a regular attendee at sporting events, racing his grandkids up a rock climbing wall in his 70s (and beating them), or zip lining during a cruise in Hawaii, his family will forever cherish the fond memories he made with them and the endless joy that he brought to their lives.

When his grandchildren went off to college, he and Patty never skipped a beat. Their routine, nightly calls were anticipated by his grandchildren’s college roommates and always kept them connected to their girls, even when hundreds of miles separated them.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Ralph and Josephine Stoneman; and his brother, Donald.

Richard is survived by his wife, Patty and children, Sherry (Bruce) Jones and Bill (Rochelle) Stoneman. Richard also leaves behind four grandchildren, Lindsey (Steven) Zivoder, Lauren Jones, Kylie and Colton Stoneman.

As a man who touched so many, Richard’s kindness, thoughtfulness and incredible heart will fondly be remembered by all who were fortunate to know him.

The family would also like to express their gratitude to Armstrong Memory Care in Champion and Westerville Senior Living in Westerville, for their exceptional care and compassion during Richard’s final days.

To honor his memory, the family invites friends and loved ones to a celebration of Richard’s life, noon to 3 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 10, 2023, at one of his favorite places, Roby Lee’s, 425 Ridge Road, Newton Falls.

In the spirit of his love for sharing meals with those he cared about, all are welcome to stop in anytime for a dinner, and celebrate the life of a remarkable man.

(special notice)