Richard Victor Cargnel

Richard Victor Cargnel, age 89, of Akron and formerly of New Philadelphia, died late Thursday, October 3, 2024, in Summa Akron City Hospital.

Born in New Philadelphia on June 10, 1935, Richard was a son of the late Geno and Lottie Gladstone Cargnel.

After graduating from New Philadelphia High School, Richard entered the United States Army and proudly served his country during the Korean War. 

On September 14, 1957, Richard married the former Merrill A. Wise. Together the couple had six children and were longtime members of Calvary Baptist Church at New Philadelphia. They also participated in the Meinheim Auto Auctions at Detroit. Merrill preceded Richard in death on April 1, 2011, following 53 years of marriage.

Professionally, Richard enjoyed life behind the wheel. He was a delivery driver and salesman for more than 30 years with the KT Salem Potato Chip Company, Frito-Lay, and Eagle Snacks before joining his family as a driver for JTW Air Express Company, from which he retired following 15 years of service. 

As an avid sports enthusiast, Richard enjoyed fishing, and playing Bocce, was inducted into the Summit County Men’s Fast Pitch Softball Hall of Fame, cheered on the Ohio State Buckeyes, and enjoyed watching the Cleveland Indians. Richard also loved a good card game and never turned down an opportunity to play a few hands of poker or euchre while spending time with his family.

Richard is survived by his family which includes his children, Brett (Danieta) Cargnel of North Canton, Robert (Diane) Cargnel, of Michigan, Michael (Sandi) Cargnel of Parma and Melanie (Ron “Butch”) Purkhiser of Akron; a daughter-in-law, Tracey Cargnel of Michigan, 12 grandchildren, Matthew Cargnel, Cathy (Dan) Artino, Heather (Jason) Purkhiser Ward, Samantha (Dr. Scott) Goodwin, Christopher Cargnel, Ethan Cargnel, Holly (Bruce) Behanna, Brandon (Hannah) Cargnel, Jay Cargnel, Olivia (Billy) Rowland, Anthony Kolton, and Travis Cargnel; 10 great-grandchildren, and one-great-great grandchild.

Completing the family are two sisters-in-law, Sherry Cargnel and Jan Cargnel as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents and wife, Richard was preceded in death by an infant daughter, Carol Jo Cargnel; a son, Mark Cargnel; and three brothers, Gene, Jerry, and Jack Cargnel.

The family will greet guests on Saturday, October 19, 2024, from 10 – 11 AM in the Linn-Hert-Geib Funeral Home & Crematory at New Philadelphia where Pastor Don Snow will lead a memorial service celebrating Richard’s life at 11 AM. Members of the Carl C. Stoller VFW Post 1445 will render military honors at the funeral home’s flag pole following the service.