Richard Planton

Richard Planton, 64, of McDonald, died Tuesday April 24, 2012 at his home with the love of his family surrounding him.  He was born February 14, 1948 in Youngstown, Ohio the son of the late Dudley H. & Olive V. Thomas Planton.   He was a 1966 graduate of Girard High School, where he played basketball and acquired the nick name "Big Bird".  He then attended Youngstown State University studying business until he volunteered for the draft and served in Vietnam for the Army.  Upon discharge, Richard worked for International Mill Sevices for 35 years.  He was honored with the President's Award in 1992, promoted to General Manager in 1996 and looked forward to going to work every day. He was a life long member of the Girard First Christian Church where he served as a deacon and elder.  He was an avid golfer and served on the Board of Directors for Oak Tree Country Club, where he made a hole in one on the 3rd hole! His other passion was playing gin with his daughter and with the guys at Oak Tree.   He is survived by his wife the former Barbara Bowes whom he married August 1, 1970, daughter, Christine (Kevin) Planton Fedyski of Phoenix, Arizona, granddaughter Abby Hope, who was the light of his life; and sister Patricia (Don) Zurcher of Manchester, Connecticut.  He is also survived by his mother in law, Dorothy Bowes and several nieces, nephews and cousins. Funeral Services will be held on Saturday April 28, 2012 at 11:00 AM at Blackstone Funeral Home.  Family will receive relatives and friends on Friday from 6-8 PM at the funeral home.  The family request that Material Contributions be made to the Girard First Christian Church or Hospice of the Valley 5190 Market Street Youngstown, Ohio 44512. Visit www.blackstonesfh.com to view this obituary and send condolences to the Planton family.