Richard L. Susanjar's Obituary
Richard “Rick” L. Susanjar Sr., age 80, of Lorain, passed away peacefully on May 11, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.
Born on March 10, 1946, in Lorain, Ohio, Rick was the son of Marian (nee Porostovsky) and Nicholas Susanjar. A proud lifelong Lorain resident, he graduated from Lorain High School before continuing his education at Kent State University, where he earned both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in education.
Rick lived a life centered around family, laughter, music, and making memories with the people he loved most.
He is survived by his beloved wife of 50 years, Pamela Susanjar (nee Dirda). Together, they built a life rooted in love, family traditions, and celebration.
He was the proud father of four sons: Richard, Nicholas (Lauren), Justin, and Brent (Yamuna). Rick was also a loving and devoted grandfather to Quinn, Giselle, Easton, and Hudson, who brought him endless pride and joy. He is also survived by his sisters, Bonnie (Arthur) Cooke and Pamela (Jeff) Cera; brothers- and sisters-in-law Michael (Marian) Dirda, Gary Dodson (Sandra, deceased), and Linda (Kelvin) Gerhart; along with many nieces, nephews, dear friends, and countless others touched by his kindness and humor.
Rick dedicated much of his life to education within Lorain City Schools. During his teaching career, he taught at several schools throughout Lorain, including Homewood, Fairhome, Larkmoor, Lakeview, and Irving Elementary Schools. He made a lasting impact on his students through his compassion, kindness, and love for music, often playing the guitar and singing with his classes. Outside of school, he was also a dedicated coach who loved encouraging and supporting kids both on and off the field.
Rick truly celebrated life. He loved bringing his family together for birthdays, holidays, road trips, and the simple moments that became lifelong memories. He especially enjoyed traveling with Pam, particularly their time spent at their condo in Las Vegas. Rick also had a passion for Corvettes and Cadillacs, trips to the casino, and treasure-hunting adventures with his son Richard that always seemed to uncover something special.
Rick was also well known for his sweet tooth and was on a first-name basis with many local bakeries thanks to his daily donut or cake purchase. At family parties, everyone knew the coveted corner piece with frosting on all sides was reserved for “the king.”
Music was one of Rick’s greatest passions and a gift he loved sharing with others. A talented musician, he was the lead singer of his band and played the piano, organ, guitar, and accordion. Whether it was music filling the room, a good polka playing, or one of his stories making everyone laugh, Rick had a way of bringing people together and making everyone feel welcome. His larger-than-life personality, deep love for family, and ability to turn ordinary moments into lasting memories will forever live on through the traditions, laughter, music, and stories shared by all who knew and loved him.
The family will receive friends on Wednesday, May 20, 2026, from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Dovin and Reber Jones Funeral & Cremation Center, 1110 Cooper Foster Park Road, Amherst, Ohio. Closing Prayers will be held on Thursday, May 21, 2026 at 9:15 a.m. in the funeral center followed by Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 a.m.
at St. Mary Catholic Church, 309 W. 7th Street, Lorain, Ohio on Thursday, May 21, 2026. Rev. Father Daniel Divis, Pastor, will officiate. Interment will follow at Ridge Hill Memorial Park.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions be made in Rick’s memory to the St. Mary Food Pantry.
What’s your fondest memory of Richard?
What’s a lesson you learned from Richard?
Share a story where Richard's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Richard you’ll never forget.
How did Richard make you smile?
