Richard Michael Kotick

Richard Michael Kotick, age 85, of Fairlawn, Ohio, passed away peacefully on January 9, 2026.

Richard was born on January 17, 1940, in Youngstown, Ohio, to Emma and Michael Kotick, as the middle of 5 children. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical Engineering from Youngstown State University and proudly served in the United States Army from 1963 to 1964.

Richard spent his career as an electrical engineer with FirstEnergy. He was an active member of his church, where he served on the facilities committee and sang in the choir for many years. He was also an avid tennis player and participated in several local tennis leagues, making many lifelong friendships. Richard was recognized by the Red Cross for donating blood more than 200 times. He was often found exercising and spending time outdoors.

Most of all, Richard loved spending time with his family. He and Judy celebrated 55 years of marriage raising their family, being active in their community and church, and traveling and experiencing life together. He always supported his three sons coaching various sports and supporting all their activities. He had a special relationship with all his grandchildren as their Papa, truly touching all their lives in his special way.

Richard is survived by his wife, Judy (Pohl) Kotick; his sister, Linda Kempston, and her husband Dave; his sons, Jim and his wife Becca, Dave and his wife Michele, and Tom and his wife Amanda; and his nine grandchildren Marley, Cameron, Andrew, Gabe, Thea, Audrey, Eliza, Evan, and Emma.

Memorial service will take place at 11:00 AM on SATURDAY, January 17, 2026 at Fairlawn Lutheran Church, 3415 W. Market St. Fairlawn, OH 44333. Friends may call from 9:00 AM until the start of the service. Inurnment immediately following at Rose Hill Burial Park.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Justin T. Rogers Hospice, 3358 Ridgewood Rd. Akron, OH 44321 or the Fairlawn Lutheran Church Endowment Fund, 3415 W. Market St. Fairlawn, OH 44333.

Richard will be remembered as a kind, good man by those who loved him.

Services in care of the Billow Funeral Homes & Crematory, Fairlawn Chapel, 85 N. Miller Rd. Fairlawn, OH 44333.