Richard R. Lamping

Richard “Rick” Raymond Lamping, age 52, of Cincinnati, Ohio, passed away surrounded by his family. Born on January 9, 1973, to Mary Sue (Napier) Lamping and Richard Raymond Lamping, Rick grew up in Northbrook as the second youngest of seven siblings. His childhood at Highview Church instilled in him the faith, humility, and generosity that became the foundation of the man he was.

Rick’s life was defined by perseverance, hard work, and an unwavering commitment to others. Emancipated at just 16, he often reminded those around him, “If you don’t build your dream, someone will hire you to build theirs.” And build his dream he did. From humble beginnings working in the front office of a transmission shop, Rick’s brilliance, determination, and drive led him to found Cincinnati Transmission Specialists in 2003. Sixteen years later, he expanded to include Sharon Woods Auto Care, transforming a small shop into a respected name across the tri-state. His reputation as the “go-to guy” for transmissions wasn’t just because of his expertise—it was because he treated every customer as if they were family. His honesty, faith, and work ethic built more than businesses; they built trust and relationships that will outlast him. Rick’s legacy at Cincinnati Transmission Specialists will be honored and continued by his sons-in-law and the trusted employees who shared in his vision and dedication.

Rick’s greatest legacy was not measured in work—it was in love. In 1992, what began as a chance family introduction changed the course of Rick’s life forever. He met Trinity, the woman who would become his anchor, his match, and his home. On March 13, 1993, they stood together at Highview Church to marry in the middle of one of Cincinnati’s worst snowstorms. That day was more than a wedding; it was a promise that no matter the storm—whether snow, struggle, or sorrow—they would face it together. For 32 years, they did just that. Their marriage was not built on grand gestures, but on daily acts of devotion, sacrifice, and unwavering loyalty. Rick and Trinity didn’t just love each other—they chose each other, again and again, through every trial and triumph. To lose Rick is not only to lose a husband; it is to lose the kind of love people spend their whole lives searching for. Trinity’s grief is the measure of the love they shared: vast, unshakable, and irreplaceable. Theirs was not just a love story—it was the kind of love that leaves the world dimmer in its absence.

Rick’s pride and joy were his children and grandchildren. He is survived by his loving wife, Trinity, and his four children: Adam Van Nest, Ryan Lamping, Taylor (Dustin) Svenkerud, and Shelby (Brannen) Martin. He was a devoted "Pops" to Ellorie (Taylor) Svenkerud, Aubrey (Taylor) Svenkerud, and joyfully awaited the arrival of Rosie Ann (Shelby) Martin.

Rick is also survived by his siblings, Jimmie Napier, Sandra Meyer, and Raymond Lamping; his father-in-law, Jerry Booher (who often declared Rick his and the late Flo Booher’s “favorite son in-law”); his and Trinity’s best friends, the Stacy family; and countless nieces, nephews, extended family, colleagues, and customers whose lives he touched.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his siblings Michael Napier, Charlie Napier, and Shirley Thacker, and his beloved mother-in-law, Flora Booher.

Rick lived with a zest for life that was unmatched. He loved garage-sitting, traveling, and creating memories on Lake Cumberland with his family and friends. He held every role in his life— husband, father, Pops, business owner, mentor, friend—with humility, pride, and an insatiable desire to always be better. Even in his last days, he never stopped striving.

Above all, Rick had a giant heart. He sacrificed his own time, comfort, and sometimes even his own needs to make sure others had what they needed. He gave freely to family, to friends, and to strangers, always putting others first—even when it wasn’t convenient. His generosity was not just a choice; it was his nature.

To honor Rick’s giving spirit, the family requests no flowers. Instead, donations may be made to Lamplight of Hope, the nonprofit foundation Rick and his family founded to serve families with disabilities or dealing with hardship. Contributions in his honor will carry forward the generosity that Rick lived by. Donations may be arranged by emailing [email protected] or sending a Venmo to @LamplightOfHope.

Rick leaves behind a life that cannot be measured in years, but in the love he gave, the dreams he built, and the countless lives he lifted. His story is one of grit, faith, and selflessness—and above all, of love. He will be deeply missed, but his light will continue to shine in every life he touched.

Visitation will be from 4 PM until the time of service at 7 PM Tuesday, September 30th at Mihovk-Rosenacker Funeral Home, 10211 Plainfield Rd, Cincinnati, OH 45241. Online condolences may be shared at www.MRFH.com