02/09/2024

Obituary for Richard Earl Wise

Father of Sara Wise, Funeral Director and Embalmer at Latek & Rybicki Funeral Home

RICHARD EARL “DICK” WISE, age 71, of New Philadelphia, passed away February 5, 2024, after a brief illness, with his kids by his side. Born April 18, 1952, he was the middle child of Earl and Maxine. He graduated from New Philadelphia High School in 1971. It’s there that he met his wife, Amy Fisher. They were married March 18, 1978. He retired from Schwartz Distributing.

Husband of 45 years to Amy; beloved father of Sara Elizabeth (Brian Anielski) and Ryan Earl (Jessica); dear brother of John (Chris Murdie), Howard, Sam (Kay), and Debbie Flint (Chuck-deceased); loving uncle of Steven Flint, Julie Shimko (Eric), Adam Flint (Jessica), and Andrew Wise; devoted great-uncle of Benjamin and Madison Shimko; brother-in-law of Larry Fisher (Carrie-deceased) and Tom Fisher (Linda).

He was so proud of his children and their professions.

He had many miniature schnauzers during his life with Louie and Lizzie being his current two. He loved spoiling his miniature schnauzer grandpups: Dash, CoCo, Phoenix (all deceased), Trigger and D’Artagnan.

To say he was leaving behind a host of friends would be an understatement. Dick’s love language was acts of service. He would help with any project. He was knowledgeable about all types of repairs, building, woodworking, tree cutting - a jack-of-all-trades.

Dick was always on the go - hunting, fishing, canning, gardening, tending his land and ponds, beekeeping, making homemade wine and brandy, and spending time at his cabin in Tionesta, PA.

He was a 49-year member of the New Philadelphia Elks Lodge #510 and bowled in their league for many years.

Dick was a dedicated member of First United Church of Christ. He served as a deacon, treasurer of Council, appointed trustee, helped with Thursday lunches and just the general running and upkeep of the church. He went on many mission trips, including Jamaica with his family, St. Croix, and Ukraine. He loved spending a few weeks every summer at Pilgrim Hills, a UCC church camp, helping with outdoor maintenance, before its closure in 2018.

In his final act of service and love, he became a donor with Lifebanc, helping 50-70 people.

The family suggests donations to First UCC, PO Box 422, New Philadelphia, OH 44663.

He will be deeply missed, even as his legacy lives on.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Maggoo’s, 1816 E. High Avenue, New Philadelphia on SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM.