Richard Raptis
Richard “Dick” Wayne Raptis, of Cambridge, Ohio passed away peacefully in his home on August 11, 2024 following a lengthy illness. He was born March 13, 1953 in Cambridge, Ohio and was the eldest child of the late Richard “Dick” Sr. and Aileen Raptis. He was a 1971 graduate Cambridge High School where he was very active in football and wrestling. He married the love of his life Nancy Goodwill on October 21, 1972 and they started their family having two beautiful children Brian and Julie. Dick and Nancy were married 51 Wonderful Years.
Dick apprenticed with his father’s Construction company, Dick Raptis and Sons Construction learning and mastering his trade to become a master brick and stone mason. After the death of his father, he continued on with the company along with his brothers before branching out on his own, with Raptis Masonry. Later in life he joined up with Tim Higgins of Cambridge from Higgins Construction. The two continued to work side by side with their love of masonry. Despite being “semi-retired”, he continued working until earlier this year when his illness would no longer allow him to work.
Dick was passionate about family, work, and community. He was a kind and generous soul, always willing to give a helping hand when needed. He was especially passionate about being a grandfather “Poppy” of two grandsons, Blake and Brock Stashonsky. He beamed with pride as they pursued their passion with a career in the trades as Linemen. He was active in the community with his support of Elks Lodge 448 of Cambridge, the Fraternal Order of Eagles 386 of Cambridge, Moose Lodge 631 of Cambridge and the V.F.W. Post 2901 of Cambridge. He loved football and was a beloved 49ers fan. He never knew a stranger. He had a mischievous, fun side and enjoyed life to the fullest with many deep rooted friendships. He was president of the Dirty “B” Club which will live on in his memory.
Dick is survived by his loving wife Nancy, son Brian Raptis of Cambridge, daughter Julie Stashonsky of Zanesville, and her fiancé Brian Fulks of Zanesville.
Grandsons, Blake and Brock Stashonsky of a Zanesville. Brothers, Willard and Robert of Cambridge. Sisters, Cathy (Craig) Ferrari of Cambridge, Deborah Raptis of Greenville, Ohio, and Connie (Raptis) Arnold of Kansas City, Missouri.
Dear cousin, Michael St. Clair, Sisters in law, Carol (Chuck) Carter of Cambridge, Rita Ikes (Dick Fisher), Bonnie (Tim) Slima of Georgia. Brother in law, George Heldman of Cambridge, and many aunts, cousins, nephews and nieces.
He was proceeded in death by his son in law, John Stashonsky. His parents, Richard Sr. and Aileen Jerles Raptis. His in laws Raymond and Betty Goodwill of Cambridge. Three brothers; Daniel “Danny” (2003), Larry (2015) and Tony (2015), sister in law Patti Heldman. And his close friend, Randy Porter.
He always had a smile for anyone that entered the room and loved his work. His art, talent and dedication to his trade left a footprint in the community. The family has peace knowing that in heaven he will no longer be in pain and will reunite with all those that who gone before him. Dick was passionate about family and friends. All that knew him knew the pride he had for his beautiful stone cabin he masterfully built on family land. This was his PEACEFUL, HAPPY PLACE.
Revelation 21:4 ”He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away.” May our memories of Dick be eternal.
An open house Celebration of Life will be held on August 24, 2024 from 1:00-5:00pm at the Eagles Lodge, 1930 E. Wheeling Ave. Cambridge, OH 43725. The family welcomes all that would like to come and play tribute to Dick’s life.
The family would like to give special thanks to Hospice of Guernsey County for their care and support through this difficult time. Chandler Funeral Home & Cremation Service, 609 West Street, Caldwell, OH 43724 has been entrusted to care for the family. Please join us in remembering Dick by visiting his memorial at www.ChandlerFuneralHome.net
