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AUSTINTOWN -- Richard Robert Berdy Sr., 77, passed away on Monday, Sept. 14, 2026, in Austintown, in the comfort of his home with the help of Expand Hospice, a devoted caregiver and friend of the family, and his family at his bedside.
Born on Sept. 9, 1949, in Youngstown, Richard lived a life marked by commitment to his family, dedicated work and faithful military service.
He graduated from Poland Seminary High School in 1968, beginning the next chapter of a life that would be defined by steady effort and enduring devotion to those around him.
Mr. Berdy served in the United States Army from August 1969 through March 1971, with the 36th Engineer Battalion, Company B, USARV. During his service, he worked as a crawl tractor and bulldozer operator and attained the rank of SP4. His military decorations included the National Defense Service Medal; the Vietnam Service Medal; the Vietnam Campaign Medal; and the Civil Action Honor Medal, First Class. His service in Vietnam remained a lasting part of his life, and for more than 20 years he battled the effects of Agent Orange connected to that service.
His working life reflected the same persistence and determination. Over the years, he was employed at Romano's Garage in Hillsville, Pa.; Zelinka's Auto Wrecking and Salvage in Poland; Calex Corporate in Campbell; Youngstown Sheet and Tube until its closing on Black Friday; and The Tamarkin Company in Austintown, until its merger with OK Grocery (Giant Eagle) in Crafton, Pa. He retired in 2004 due to multiple health issues.
Richard shared 55 years of marriage with his loving wife, Helen J. Meyers-Berdy, whom he married on May 22, 1971, following four years of dating. He is also remembered by his daughter, Colleen Berdy Clark; his son, Richard R. Berdy Jr.; his sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Reenie and Allan Frank; his nieces, Kristin Sujka and Abby Frank, with Kristin's husband, Paul, and Abbie's significant other, Adam, also named among those close to the family; his great-nephew, Samuel Sujka; multiple cousins, including Trudy, Tommy, John, Joann and Bill; and his special friend, Dan Bondi. He will also be missed by his beloved cat, Cowboy.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Paul Jr. and Marge Vasilcik-Berdy; his sister, Diane Castick; and numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins.
The family extends special thanks to Dr. Traikoff and Dr. David Hoffman; Expand Home Health and Hospice; the VA in Calcutta and Cleveland; the VA-HBPC; the Cleveland Clinic; and the many wonderful caregivers who assisted him through the years.
Those who knew Richard Robert Berdy will remember the deep impression he made in their lives. He was described as a true earth angel, and the suddenness of his loss is deeply felt by many. May the memory of Richard bring comfort to all who knew him and carry forward with lasting gratitude for his life, his service and his place in the hearts of others.
There are no services, per his request.
Richard's wish was to donate his body to medical science at NEOUCOM in Ravenna.
Donations may be made to NEOUCOM, in honor of Richard Berdy Sr., via the website www.NEOMED.EDU/give/support the blue fund. The blue fund provides scholarships and other programs for medical students.
Richard will be honored for his gift and his military service in May, with a ceremony at the college where the local VFW will be in attendance for the playing of taps and the 21-gun salute.
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