Obituary published on Legacy.com by Frederick Funeral Home on Aug. 6, 2025.
Richard C. Harmeyer, age 85, passed away peacefully on August 4, 2025, in
Cincinnati, Ohio. A lifelong resident of the Cincinnati area, Rich was born on August 11, 1939, in Reading, Ohio.
Rich's early education began at Sts. Peter & Paul Grade School and continued at Roger Bacon High School. He later earned his degree from the University of Cincinnati, laying the foundation for a successful and fulfilling career. For 35 years, he dedicated himself to Procter & Gamble, where his work ethic and commitment left a lasting impression.
Beyond his professional life, Rich was deeply involved in his community and church. A devoted member of St. James Catholic Church in White Oak for over five decades, he served on the Parish Council and was an active volunteer for 56 years. His dedication extended to the Circle of Care Ministry and numerous leadership roles within the parish. As Grand Knight of the Knights of Columbus, Rich exemplified service and faith in action.
Rich also contributed his time and talents to several boards, including the St. James Credit Union, Lenox Savings & Loan, and Roger Bacon High School. He was a steadfast supporter of Catholic education and donated his time and treasure to St. James Grade School, Roger Bacon High School, McAuley High School, and Mercy McAuley High School.
Rich's interests were as varied as they were passionate. He enjoyed golf, woodworking, travel, home renovation projects, and real estate investing. He coached his daughters' softball teams through the White Oak Athletic Club and remained an enthusiastic participant in a long-standing poker group and several dinner clubs. But mostly treasured his time with family and friends. You could find him in attendance at a variety of his grandchildren's activities and events. A natural leader and organizer, he served as the social director for countless family vacations and gatherings with friends.
Family was at the heart of Rich's life. He is survived by his beloved wife of 64 years Ruth Harmeyer; daughters Deb (Mike) Wells, Julie (John) Herbert, Melissa (Tim) Kreimer, and Tracy (Woody) Wood. He took immense pride in his role as Grandfather to Zachary (Brittany) Wells, Chelsea (John) Nungesser, Grace Wells, Danielle (Matt) Paganelli, Maddie (Tony) Appiarius, Quintin (Natallie) Herbert, Sydney (Jacob) Kaiser, Jared, Morgan, Tori, Adyson & Dirk Kreimer, Hayden, Anna, Maggie & Harrison Wood and Great-Grandfather to Henry, Sullivan, Benjamin & Saoirse Wells, Elouise, Tucker & Odessa Paganelli, Grant & Violet Nungesser, Quinnley & Charlee Appiarius. He is also survived by siblings JoAnn Harmeyer, Donna (Bob) Smith, & Dan (Lori) Harmeyer, sister-in-law Pat Harmeyer, and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents Lucille and Clarence Harmeyer; brother Jim Harmeyer, and sister Eileen Brisben.
Rich Harmeyer leaves behind a legacy of faith, service, devotion to family, and friendships that will be cherished by all who knew him. May his memory bring comfort to those whose lives he touched so deeply.
Visitation will be held Sunday, August 10, 2025 from 2:00-5:00pm at Fredrick Funeral Home 2553 Banning Road, Cincinnati OH 45239. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Monday August 11, 2025 at 10:00am at St. James Catholic Church 3565 Hubble Road, Cincinnati OH 45247.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to Mercy McAuley High School 6000 Oakwood Ave.
Cincinnati, OH 45224 or Roger Bacon High School 4320 Vine St.
Cincinnati, OH 45217. Special condolences may be expressed at frederickfh.com
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