Richard Allen Karban, born on January 27, 1943 in Cleveland, OH, peacefully passed away on October 4, 2025, at the age of 82. He was married to his beloved wife, MaryLou, for 64 wonderful years. Rich retired as a dedicated diesel mechanic for Cuyahoga Valley Railroad with LTV Steel in 2002. He was known for his exceptional skill and work ethic. Beyond his profession, he had a loving soul and a wide array of passions. He adored his dogs, enjoyed woodworking, delighted in birding in his backyard, and especially cherished spending time with his family. He was also known for his storytelling, coaching baseball and softball, and sharing joyful memories with those around him. He was an integral part of the North Ridgeville City Baseball program, where he served various roles including president, for almost 20 years. He is survived by his wife, MaryLou; his ten children—Rich (Betsy), Victor, Pam Timar, Cecile (Frank) Gidlin, Russell (Amny), Vinny (Dianne), Paulette Karban, Monica (Steve) Summers, Paul (Staci), and Gloria Burkholder (Jeremy Pester)—and his 28 grandchildren, Richard, Elyssa, Alaina, Madalyn, Joshua, Viviani, Dominic, Angela, Frankie, Jared, Jimmy, Kaitlyn, Jack, Bryce, Wesley, Rolo, Karley, Andrew, Abby, Katherine, Rebecca, Matthew, Annabelle, Andrew, Ezekiel, Samuel, Carter, Drew. He was also a proud grandfather to 19 great-grandchildren. Rich is survived by his sister, Darlene Carriker, and preceded in death by his parents, John and Ester Karban, as well as brothers, Bob and John, and sister, Carol Duck. Rich's gentle spirit, love for family, playful humor, and passion for life will be dearly missed by all who knew him. He was a strong and faithful man whose steady presence anchored his family, always guiding with reason, wisdom, and love. And although his physical presence may no longer grace our lives, may his spirit continue to uplift and inspire us to carry forward his legacy and family values. Family and friends are invited to celebrate and honor a truly remarkable life from 4 to 7 p.m. Thursday, October 9, at St. Mary Parish, Elyria, Ohio in The Weigand Room. A Catholic funeral Mass will be held Friday, October 10, at 11 a.m., St. Mary Parish, Elyria, OH. Burial will follow at Brookdale Cemetery, 41600 Oberlin-Elyria Rd., Elyria, OH. Arrangements handled by Laubenthal Mercado Funeral Home.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.laubenthalmercado.com. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations may be made to St. Mary Parish, Elyria, OH.