Richard D. “Rich” Messersmith, Jr.
Richard D. “Rich” Messersmith, Jr., age 57, of Shelby, died unexpectedly Tuesday, February 23, 2016 while at work.
Rich was born October 9, 1958 in Mansfield, the son of the late Richard D. and Opal J. (Latimer) Messersmith, Sr.. He was a veteran of the United States Army serving both stateside and in Germany. Rich was proud to earn his G.E.D. after his military service. He was a truck driver his entire life and was currently working for Ru-D Trucking in Ashland. He was a member of the Shelby American Legion, Shelby Owl’s Club, Shelby VFW where he had been the men’s auxiliary president, and was a life member of the Amvets. Rich enjoyed hunting, fishing, camping, and golfing. He also enjoyed his garden which he swore he would never replant but it always reappeared each year. He especially loved spending time with his children.
Rich is survived by his wife, Sheila Ann (Owens) Messersmith, whom he wed on November 4, 1991. Also surviving are his 3 children: Heath Messersmith (partner, Mark Hively) of Shelby, Heather Messersmith (fiancé, Donald Manuel) of Butler, and Michael Messersmith (partner, Teressa Carter) of Shelby; 4 sisters: Diana (James) Haley of Shelby, Debra (Don) Adkins of Crestline, Kim Messersmith (Kevin Wappner) of Shelby, and Randie (John) Boyer of Shelby; numerous brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, nieces, and nephews, including a special nephew, Nick Kollar, Jr.. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, Ross Adkins.
Family and friends are welcome on Saturday, February 27, 2016 from 2-4 PM at the Turner Funeral Home, 168 West Main Street, Shelby, where funeral services will follow at 4 PM with Pastor Michael Bloomfield of Shelby First United Methodist Church officiating.
To share a memory or express a condolence, please visit: penwellturner.com
Heath and family I’m so sorry for your loss. Prayers to you and your family in this time of need. I love you.
Love,
Kari
Sheila and Family,
The news of Rich’s passing is a great surprise to us. We send all our love and hugs to each and everyone of you at this very sad time. We have so many great memories of good times and many laughs with Rich and you over the years.God Be With Each of you and give you Peace to carry on. His memory will keep him safely tucked in your hearts forever.
Prayers to the Messersmith family. I am so sorry for your loss
Sorry for your loss Sheila To you and your Family Thoughts and Prayers are with you
It is so important to cherish the loved ones in our lives, as time is short. My thoughts and prayers are with the Messersmith family during this time of need. God Bless you all.
Shelia we are so sorry for your loss, you are in our prayers. Love to you.
Sheila, so sorry to hear about Rich, keeping you in my prayers.
Kim Messersmith—-I’m so sorry for the loss of your brother. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.
Sheila I am sorry to hear about Rich. I do you have you and your family in my heart and thoughts. Love you bunches.
Dear Sheila, Heath, Heather and Michael you are in my prayers and thoughts. My deepest condolences to each of you and the Messersmith family. As I told Rich he was a wonderful provider and loved his family. Rest in peace Rich. Love to all.
Heath and family-
My condolences to you and your family. I pray that Our Lord will comfort and bless you during this difficult time.
I send you a hug Heath,
Melinda Shaum
(Heath’s teacher at Pioneer CTC)
To the family,
Heartfelt condolences to all during this most difficult time. Cherish the memories.
Vicky