Richard Messler Jr.

TROY - Richard S. Messler Jr. of Troy, Ohio formerly of Dayton passed away on March 5th, 2025, at the age of 81. He was born on March 3,1944, in Dayton, Ohio, to Richard and Jessie (Newton) Messler. In his youth, Richard had a love for adventure; he enjoyed horseback riding, motorcycles, and was active in sports.

While attending school in Dayton, Richard met the love of his life, Dorothy Lawson. Their remarkable love story spanned 63 wonderful years, a rare and beautiful testament to finding one's soulmate early in life.

A gifted entrepreneur and engineer, Richard began his career as a draftsman at Lau Blower in Dayton before transitioning to an engineering role at Dayco Corporation. His innovative spirit led him to co-found Magna Graphics where he and his partners revolutionized the printing industry with a groundbreaking magnetic printing device. After selling his interest in the company, Richard embarked on a new venture in construction and land development. He founded Messler Builders and Castlebrook Realty, serving as President of the Miami County Home Builders Association during the 1970s and 1980s. His leadership left a lasting impact on the industry, including his role in organizing local builders and testifying on Capitol Hill during the Savings and Loan Crisis, advocating for the construction community.

Richard continued to shape the real estate landscape by founding First Troy Corp and Brookwood Corporate Leasing, expanding into multifamily and commercial real estate. Over six decades, he provided homes and office spaces to generations of families and businesses across Miami and Shelby counties.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother-in-law, Webster Eugene Lawson, and his sister-in-law, Mary Alice (Lawson) Jackson.

Richard's greatest joy was his family. He was a devoted father to his children, Richard Smith Messler III, Steven Michael Messler, and David Brian Messler. A loving and doting grandfather, he cherished his time with his grandchildren, Lara Leighann Messler, (Cody Magato) of Tipp City, Ohio, and Colin Taylor (Brianne Nicole) Messler of West Milton, Ohio. His legacy continues through his great-grandchildren, Jayden Shawn Magato and Landon Jayce Messler, whom he adored.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Richard found joy in life's simple pleasures. He loved boating, fishing, golfing, baseball, billiards and football. A passionate sports fan, he never missed the opportunity to cheer on the Cincinnati Reds, The Bengals and the Ohio State Buckeyes. Saturdays and Sundays were often spent in front of the television, following his favorite teams. He also had a deep appreciation for travel and embraced learning about different cultures.

Richard will be forever remembered for his unwavering dedication to his family, his visionary contributions to his industry, and his enthusiasm for life His legacy of love, hard work, and adventure will continue to inspire those who knew him.

Graveside services will be held Tuesday, March 11, 2025, at 11am at Woodland Cemetery, Dayton.

Friends may call on the family from 4-7pm Monday March 10th at Baird Funeral Home, Troy. Memorial contributions may be made to Ohio's Hospice of Miami County, 3230 N. Co. Rd. 25A, Troy, Ohio 45373.

Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.baird funeralhome.com.