Richard Bleininger

Richard P. Bleininger, “Richie” or “Hot Wheels” to many, age 78, of Dover, died following a hard-fought battle with heart and lung failure, late Friday, August 22, 2025, in Select Specialty Hospital at Canton.

Born in Union Hospital at Dover, on August 19, 1947, Rich was a son of the late Ervin R. and Bessie M. Metzger Bleininger. Raised on the family farm in Stone Creek, he was a graduate of Garaway High School and proudly served his country during the Vietnam War as a member of the United States Army.

Rich’s professional career spanned for more than 20 years with the Kimble Company at Dover, where he worked as a heavy equipment operator. He was a member of the Dover Eagles, a life member of the Carl C. Stoller Post 1445 New Philadelphia VFW, and the Tuscarawas Senior Center.

Rich’s hobbies included riding his beloved trike, bird watching, being outdoors, and spending time with family and friends.

He is survived by his children, Daniel (Shawnee Burrier) Bleininger of Dover and Heather (Brian) Page of Dover; his grandchildren, Joshua Bleininger, Logan and Bryson Page; a step-grandson, Damian Jett; three sisters, Betty Kaser of New Philadelphia, Donna Fox of Dover; and Annamae Ribet of Pittsburgh; a sister-in-law, Beth Bleininger, and numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Richie was preceded in death by a sister, Agnes Penrod, and brothers, Raymond Bleininger, Lloyd Bleininger, Robert Bleininger, Wayne Bleininger, and Glenn Bleininger.

The family will greet guests on Sunday, August 31, 2025, from 1 – 3 PM in the Geib Funeral Center at Dover, where Pastor Brian Flood will lead a celebration of Rich’s life at 3 PM. A meal and fellowship will be shared in the Hospitality Room of the Dover Geib Center immediately following the service. Burial, with military honors provided by the New Philadelphia VFW, will be held in the Dover Burial Park on Tuesday, September 2, 2025, at 11 AM.