Richard S. Posivak 1931-2025

Richard was born Nov. 19, 1931, in Youngstown, the son of the late Stephan and Elizabeth Suhovecky Posivak. A lifelong area resident, he was a proud graduate of Chaney High School and went on to serve his country with honor in the United States Air Force. As a member of the troop transport wing, he was part of the flight team on the B36 bomber that carried the atomic bomb during the Korean War.

Following his military service, Richard attended Youngstown College and built a career in engineering, working for Wean United Engineering until its closure and later for George Mitchell Company, from which he retired. In the 1970s, he served as president of Wean United Credit Union.

Mr. Posivak was a longtime member of the former Holy Name of Jesus Church and later became a parishioner of Our Lady of Sorrows Parish-St. Matthias Church.

Rich had a passion for motorcycles, antique cars and all things mechanical. As a dedicated member and past president of the Mahoning Valley Old Car Club, he spent over 30 years organizing car cruises and annual car shows, sharing his love of classic automobiles with the community. He relished riding his Cushman scooter with his friends to Geneva-on-the-Lake and enjoyed boating on Lake Erie and Mosquito Lake.

An adventurer at heart, Rich loved to travel, often exploring new destinations with his family. Together, they visited 48 states, with only Alaska and Washington left unexplored. Whether on the road or at home, he always found joy in making memories with his loved ones. He was especially fond of Christmas and holiday decorations, bringing warmth and a festive spirit to those around him. When not traveling, Richard could often be found tinkering in his garage, building model cars or enjoying hobbies with his granddaughter.

Rich is survived by his wife of 67 years, Ethel Palko Posivak, whom he married Nov. 23, 1957; his daughter, Tamara (Ray E.) Zedaker of Hubbard; his granddaughter, Rachel (Joseph III) Bendekovich of Hubbard; many nieces and nephews; and countless friends.

Family and friends may gather to pay respects 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday, March 10, 2025, at Kinnick Funeral Home 477 N. Meridian Road, Youngstown, where a funeral service will be held at 1 p.m.

Interment will follow in Calvary Cemetery in Youngstown.

In lieu of flowers, Rich’s family suggests memorial contributions be made to the Mahoning Valley Old Car Club Children’s Fund in care of the family.

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