John A. Richards

John A. "Ditch" Richards, 95, of Girard, passed away quietly on Friday, November 10, 2017, at Liberty Health Care Center. John was born March 4, 1922, on Market Street in Girard, Ohio, which was his hometown his entire life, and was the son of Anthony and Maria (Catone) Richards. He graduated from Girard High School in December of 1941, where he lettered in football for four years. John joined the Army in the spring of 1942 and served in the 5th Army Engineers in Africa and Italy. He was wounded while in Italy and received the Purple Heart. After the war, he returned home and worked at the General Electric plant in Niles. From there he went to work for the City of Girard Wastewater Treatment Plant from which he retired in 1985. He leaves to cherish his memory, his sons, Thomas Alfred (Sharon) Richards and Donald Anthony (Audrey) Richards, both of Girard, two grandsons, Nathanael and David and a granddaughter, Jennifer Rose (Rick)  Polo. Besides his parents, John is preceded in death by his beloved wife of 62 years, Doris (Angleman) Richards and sisters; Pauline Richards, Carmel Sallustio, Rosie Richards, Julia Guidubaldi and Caroline Kish. John was loved by all and was an avid Browns fan. He was a great friend having an impact on all who knew him. He never ceased putting other people's needs before his own. Private services will be held at Blackstone Funeral Home in Girard. John will be laid to rest, next to his wife,at Girard City Cemetery with military honors. Visit www.blackstonefuneralhome.com to view this obituary and to send any condolences to the family.