Richard A. Durkin 1956-2023

Born on July 11, 1956, in Youngstown, the son of the late John and Bridget Devaney Durkin, he grew up in a tight-knit family that instilled in him the values of hard work, compassion and faith.

As a young man, Rick attended Ursuline High School, where he forged lifelong friendships and developed a thirst for knowledge. In 1974, he proudly graduated and embarked on his educational journey at YSU, where he earned his bachelor’s degree.

A devoted Catholic who kept his faith close to his heart throughout his life, Rick carried his Irish heritage with great pride. He was known for his captivating storytelling abilities that had everyone around him hanging onto his every word. His zest for life was contagious as he regaled family and friends with tales of adventure and humor.

He served as a Zoning Inspector for Ellsworth Township, working tirelessly to ensure the community thrived and grew harmoniously.

Outside of work, Rick nurtured several interests that brought him joy and fulfillment. An avid Notre Dame fan, he would eagerly cheer on his favorite team during football season. He had an insatiable curiosity about the world and loved traveling to explore new cultures and broaden his horizons.

Rick’s proudest accomplishment was becoming a 4th Degree Knight of Columbus, Salem Council 1818.

On May 17, 1985, Richard married the love of his life, Patricia Lowry Durkin. Their union was one filled with love, laughter and unwavering support for each other.

Rick’s passing leaves behind a void in the lives of his loved ones that can never be filled. He is survived by his adoring wife, Patricia; brothers and sisters-in-law, Tom (Jen Hanigoski) Lowry of Boardman, Jan (Joe) Castiglione of Marshfield, Mass., Mary Fran (Jim Gildone) Cunningham of Conneaut, Ohio, Mark (Mari) Lowry of Gilbert, Arizona, Bob (Maureen) Lowry of Broomall, Pa., Bill (Sherri) Lowry of Girard, Ann (Mark) Badertscher of Stuart, Florida, and Matt Lowry of Riverview, Florida. Richard touched the lives of countless nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews. He is also survived by his extended family in England and Ireland. Their memories of him will forever be cherished.

Rick was preceded in death by his mother and father-in-law, Thomas and Dorothy Lowry; siblings, John (Anna Mae) Durkin, Rosemary Durkin, Dorothy “Honey” Walsh Durkin, Sally “Sarah” Durkin, Margaret (Fred) Reali, Michael Durkin, and James (Jane) Durkin; and brother-in-law, Chris Lowry.

The services to honor Rick’s memory will be held on Thursday, Dec. 28, 2023, at the Higgins-Reardon Funeral Homes, Boardman-Canfield Chapel, where visitation will be held from 8:30 a.m. to 10:15 a.m., and will be followed by a Mass at the Society of St. Paul Monastery at 11 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the Society of St. Paul Rosary Project, 9531 W. Akron-Canfield Road, Canfield, OH 44406 or the Corpus Christi Scholarship, 744 Mill Street, Conneaut, OH 44030.

(special notice)