Richard A. Lanier, 61, of Elyria township passed away suddenly Friday, September 8, 2017. He was born July 31, 1956 in Summersville, WV. And was a graduate of Midview High School. Rick works as a dispatcher for the Wellington Police Department. He retired from Ford Motor Company, and served the community for over 20 years as a paramedic for South Lorain County Ambulance, Elyria Township Fire Department, Life Care, and UH Amherst. He enjoyed Bowling, Golf, softball and woodworking. He was the life of the party and brightened any room he walked into. Those who knew him, knew he was always willing to take the shirt off his own back if he felt you needed it more than he did, even if he didn't know you at all. Survivors include his daughter Jessica Lanier of Avon; son Derrick Lanier of Elyria Township; mother Dorma (nee O'Dell) of North Ridgeville; sister Debbie (Rob) Miller of Texas; brothers Dan of Canton and Doug of North Ridgeville; numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins; companion Diane Mulder; former wife Kathy Lanier. He was preceded in death by his father Arnold. Family will receive friends from 2PM until time of Celebration of Life at 5 PM Sunday September 17, 2017 at the Laubenthal-Mercado Funeral Home and Cremation Service 38475 Chestnut Ridge Rd. (at St. Rt. 57), Elyria 440-322-4626. Pastor Andy Sikora will officiate. Burial Private. Online condolences may be expressed at www.laubenthalmercado.com