Richard Alberts

Richard Alberts 3-25-31 of Sagamore Hills entered into eternal, peaceful rest free from pain on September 24, 2021. Though we will look for him in the garden, a workshop or when it’s time to carve the Thanksgiving turkey, Richard is to be found in those who loved him the most.

His legacy of patience, kindness, and caring for family lives on in his surviving children, Loraine (Bob) Pike, Kim Tekavcic (Rick Grabowski) and Lisa (Rob) Wright; grandchildren Adam (Alisha) Pike, Lauren Pike (fiancé Ethan Orr); and great-grandson Jackson Pike. He was preceded in death by his wife of 60 years, Joy, but gave us an amazing example of devoted caregiving throughout her illness.

After serving in the Air Force in the early 50’s, Rich was generous with his time and talents, always ready to lend a helping hand, watch out for his neighbors, and serve his community in some small way, whether it was as president of the HOA or manning the beer stand at the Walton Hills Lake. He and Joy showed us how to be excellent hosts to friends, family and neighbors for any occasion, and passed on their love of food too, including some interesting ethnic cuisine. Rich enjoyed lunches with friends (the ROMEO’s) and countless invitations to dinner as well, his favorite phrase being “I’ll never pass up a free meal!” Cooking became a necessity in his 80’s, but he embraced the process, and we literally reaped the fruits of his labors in his pies and kuchens. Never afraid to learn something new, he even chose to forego his mother’s traditional pierogi dough recipe after discovering one perfected by Chef Michael Symon.

He taught us the value of hard work, careful planning and thorough attention to details during his long career in the printing industry and in every one of his diy projects. Rich was a consummate handyman who could fix anything, except cancer. His sense of humor and “whatever it takes” attitude saw him through these last tough years. His woodworking skills were legendary: had he not chosen cremation, he would probably have built himself an exquisite casket.

Rich will be dearly missed by his surviving sisters, Marge Lipski, Grace (Rich) Lacjak, Marlene Morgan, and numerous loving nieces, nephews and cousins. Rich was preceded in death by his brother, Ralph Alberts, Ralph’s wife Carmella, and brothers-in-law Al Lipski and David Morgan. He is also beloved by his four-legged “grandkids” and his “worthless” cat, Julius.

In lieu of flowers, donations to the Cleveland Indians Charities, the Portage APL, or a charity of your choice are appreciated. Friends may call at the FERFOLIA FUNERAL HOME 356 W. AURORA RD (ST. RT. 82) SAGAMORE HILLS FOR A CELEBRATION OF RICHARD’S LIFE AND MEMORIAL VISITATION SUNDAY 2-4 PM with a brief service at 4:00PM followed by refreshments.

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