Richard J. Flora

YOUNGSTOWN - Richard J. Flora, 89, passed away Wednesday evening, Dec. 20, 2017, at Meridian Arms, following a long and active life.

Richard was born July 25, 1928, in Youngstown, a son of the late John and Antoinette Celio Flora, and was a lifelong area resident.

He was a 1947 graduate of Chaney High School, where he earned several letters playing basketball, baseball, and football, the latter as the quarterback of the varsity team. He later played Triple-A baseball for the St. Louis Cardinals in Moultrie, Georgia.

Dick was a proud veteran of the U.S. Army, serving during the Korean War from 1952 to 1954, and he received the Bronze Star for his service.

He worked as a carpenter for more than 60 years, working out of Carpenters Union Local No. 171.

A generous man, Dick was an active member of St. Brendan Church in Youngstown, volunteering his time and talents to many parish activities and fundraisers throughout his life, and he enjoyed helping others with home improvement projects. He also enjoyed fishing, being with family and friends, and he loved being with his grandkids, especially vacationing with them at Geneva-on-the-Lake.

Mr. Flora leaves his loving wife, Rita M. Agnone Flora; two sons, Mark (Debora) Flora and Gregory Flora, each of Youngstown; and four grandchildren, who affectionately called him “Nails” for being “as tough as nails,” Kevin (Tammy), Corrin (Phil), Michael, and Christopher.

A sister, Stella D’Eramo, is deceased.

Family and friends may call from 5 to 7 p.m., Tuesday, Dec. 26, at Kinnick Funeral Home, 477 N. Meridian Rd., Youngstown.

Funeral services will begin at 9:15 a.m., Wednesday, Dec. 27, at the funeral home, and will continue with a Mass of Christian Burial to be celebrated at 10 a.m. at St. Brendan Church, 2800 Oakwood Ave., Youngstown.

Dick will be laid to rest at the Ohio Western Reserve National Cemetery in Rittman at a later date.

Mr. Flora’s family suggests that memorial contributions may be made in Dick’s name to the St. Brendan Church Memorial Fund.

Dick’s family thanks the staff at Meridian Arms for the kindness shown and care given to Mr. Flora during his time there.