John Richard Demuth

John Richard “Dick” Demuth, a lifelong agriculturalist, businessman and community servant, passed away Thursday evening, September 30, 2010 in Union Hospital at Dover following a period of declining health. Born in his family’s residence at New Philadelphia on June 9, 1922, he was the son of the late Dr. William and Helen (Wallace) Demuth. Dick graduated from New Philadelphia High School in 1941 and attended the Ohio State University. Later he joined the United States Army, honorably serving our country during World War II. Although he spoke little of his military career, he was a soldier with Patton’s ground forces of Europe and was in the Battle of the Bulge.Upon returning to the Tuscarawas Valley, Dick joined his family in operating their farm on New Philadelphia’s growing east end. He’ll be remembered as a good steward of the land, knowing how to use the earth without destroying it. He shared this knowledge through his memberships on the Tuscarawas Soil and Water Conservation District for 30 years and the National Abandoned Mines Program.Beyond his service to our country during the war, Dick believed in the value of public service. He was twice elected Tuscarawas County Commissioner, first in 1962 and re-elected in 1966, serving until 1970. He was a charter member of the board of directors of the Tuscarawas County University Foundation, was a longtime member of the New Philadelphia Lion’s Club and countless other organizations. In all of his public service, Dick stayed true to his philosophy that he was there to volunteer his time and energy for the good of the organization that he believed in; not to receive accolades and awards, of which he received many.His business career was successful having owned and operated a number of companies throughout the valley. Dick taught both his employees and family the value of hard work and cooperation; in taking on a task or calling with passion.Above all else, Dick cherished being a husband, father, and friend. He, and his wife, the late Mildred P. (Sever) Demuth who preceded him in death on May 27, 1994, reared and loved seven children. He enjoyed spending time with his children and grandchildren, whether it was working on the farm or at a family gathering. Dick and Mildred also were members of First Christian Church in New Philadelphia where their children were baptized and raised in faith. Dick’s family includes his children Jim Demuth, Robert (wife, Susan) Demuth, Marcia Demuth, and Dana Demuth all of New Philadelphia, Nancy (Scott) McDaniel of Marion, O., and Carol Paulenske of Westlake, O.; his daughter-in-law, Mary Demuth Rinella.He’ll be sadly missed by his grandchildren, Bryan (Rachel) Myers, Andrea Murray, Dana (Larry) Gaskill, Jessica Murray, David (Lindsey) Demuth, Adam Demuth, Diana (Josh) Zartman, Andrew and Austin Paulenske, Brendan and Jackie Demuth, Jacob, Amanda, and Samuel Demuth.Six great-grandchildren complete the family. In addition to Dick’s wife and parents, he was preceded in death by a son, John Demuth; a daughter-in-law, Molly Demuth; two brothers, William and James Demuth; and two nieces, Marilyn “Merm” Stocker and Patty Karl.Friends are invited to call Monday afternoon from 2 to 4 and 6 to 9 p.m. in the Linn-Hert-Geib Funeral Home & Crematory at New Philadelphia.Pastor Brian Flood will lead Dick’s funeral service Tuesday morning at 10:30 in Faith Christian Church, 2012 Pleasant Valley Rd NE, New Philadelphia. Burial will follow the service in East Avenue Cemetery at New Philadelphia where the New Philadelphia V.F.W. Post #1445 will render military honors. In keeping Dick’s spirit of giving and support to Kent State University alive, please direct memorial contributions in his memory to Kent State Tuscarawas University Foundation, 330 University Drive NE, New Philadelphia, OH 44663Linn-Hert-Geib(330) 343-5506www.geibcares.com