Richard M. Kubina Sr. 1938-2024
AUSTINTOWN — Richard “Rick” M. Kubina Sr. never met or saw a person he wasn’t willing to talk to. Whether the other person wanted to talk or not, it did not matter. World matters, personal matters, news, jokes, sports or other topics were fair game. On Sunday, Feb. 18, 2024, the world lost a consummate mixer, a beloved husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather, all rolled into one man.
Rick married Judy Zareva on June 7, 1960, proving that even the chattiest of individuals can find someone willing to listen. With his beloved Judy, four children were welcomed into the world: Chris Richards, Rick Kubina Jr. (Sheri), Jennifer Johnstone and the baby of the bunch, Amy Walters. All four children have incredible memories of vacations, walks in the woods, games, family time and strays Rick made pets.
Rick loved his grandchildren. Shereen Conlan (Chris) was like a fifth Kubina child. Justin, Dylan (Justin) and Alexis Kubina grew up with fond memories of baked apple pies and kolachi. Adanna and Weston Johnstone, and Leif Walters, also have a special place in their hearts for their beloved grandfather, who swore he once outran a cheetah in his youth.
Rick had jobs ranging from real estate to driving truck. The truck driving allowed Rick to see the beauty of America from the road. It also opened up potential conversations with unsuspecting citizens across the states. Yet, his true passion was serving in the Navy, where he spent 25 years, including a stint as a corpsman in Vietnam and later as a Seabee in the reserves.
Rick was the third of six children, born July 8, 1938, to Edward and Julia Turek Kubina. Jody was the oldest, followed by fellow jokester, Norbert “Sonny” (Mary); his loving sister, Carol Wecht (Albert); his stalwart brother, Donny (Marguerite); and the baby of the family, Larry (Geri).
Rick was preceded in death by his parents, brothers and sister, and is survived by Carol. This means there is a lot of catching up and maybe a few colorful jokes in heaven right now.
Even towards the end of the road, Rick managed to make new friends in hospice at home. Nurse Jennifer Gossett from Harmony has the family’s heartfelt thanks for her caring and constant support. Home health aide Louise Ingram from Cornerstone also helped Rick maintain his personal care.
Friends may call 10 a.m. to noon, Saturday, March 2, 2024, at Lane Funeral Homes, Austintown Chapel, where family, friends, neighbors and acquaintances from all walks of life will gather to celebrate the life of a truly remarkable man. A memorial service will follow at noon.
Friends and family may view this obituary and give their condolences at www.lanefuneralhomes.com.
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