Richard Rahal

Richard "Dick" Rahal passed away peacefully at his home on November 6, 2025. He is survived by his amazing wife Donna of 54 years, his daughter Sarah, son-in-law Cliff Johnson and grand daughters Lucie and Lilly Johnson. He was preceded in death by his daughter Tamara, his sister Sarah Ann Mancy and his nephew Nick Mancy.
Born on October 31, 1940, in Toledo, Ohio, to Ruth and Michael Rahal, Richard grew up in a large and loving Lebanese family. He was a proud 1959 graduate of DeVilbiss High School, where he and his brother, Ron, shared a deep love for baseball. His sister, Sarah Ann, was the princess of the family, and Richard was always her devoted protector. Family meant everything to him, and some of his fondest memories were of gatherings with his grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins-especially the lively stories and delicious food that filled those occasions.
From a young age, Richard learned the value of hard work and business from his father, who owned the Deluxe Inn, and his Aunt Betty, who ran the Corner Carry-Out. Known for his quick mind and knack for connecting with people, he became a skilled pool player and sharp businessman. After his father's passing, Richard and Ron took over ownership of the Deluxe Inn, where he continued to refine his business and people skills.
In 1971, Richard married the love of his life, Donna Maddock, and together they built a beautiful life filled with joy, laughter, and music. They raised two daughters, Sarah and Tamara, creating countless cherished memories together-singing, skiing, snowmobiling, dancing in the kitchen, and sharing long car rides filled with laughter and love.
In the early 1960s, Richard began a remarkable career with the Pepsi Company as an accountant. His intelligence, charisma, and dedication propelled him through the ranks to become Vice President and General Manager for General Bottlers' Pepsi plants. Richard was admired and respected by colleagues at every level-he treated everyone with warmth and genuine interest, always taking time to get to know the people he worked with. He was proud of his role in creating the "99¢ any size soda" promotion at convenience stores, and his relentless work ethic made his plants among the most successful in the company.
His years with Pepsi also brought him around the world alongside his beloved wife, Donna. Together they traveled the world and met many famous people, including Michael Jackson and Tina Turner. Those same years also ignited Richard's lifelong passion for golf-he played nearly every day and had the privilege of teeing off at some of the most celebrated courses across the country. Yet for him, the true reward of his career was always the people, many of whom remained close friends long after his retirement.
In 2005, Richard proudly became a grandfather to Lucie and Lilly, who brought him immeasurable happiness. He adored spoiling them with candy and lake "toys," and in return, they delighted him with foot rubs and endless love. He loved singing with Lilly and sharing all the latest gossip with Lucie-moments that always made him smile.
Richard was brilliant, witty, and endlessly curious. He had a remarkable memory and a gift for storytelling, bringing family history and humor to life whenever he spoke. Known as a bit of a "pot-stirrer," he asked the questions others wouldn't-but always with charm and mischief.
Richard truly loved living on the lake and in retirement he happily looked at the lake everyday. He was lucky to have his brother Ron nearby at a lake house for many years as well. Those were some of his favorite times; golfing with his brother and the men of the family and sharing cigars on the deck. In retirement and before Richard was a true hobbyist with "no hobbies," Richard loved to collect and tinker with just about everything-cars, boats, trains, remote-control airplanes, archery gear, and ice-fishing equipment, to name just a few. His enthusiasm for finding treasures occasionally even got him removed from eBay! He loved his home on the lake, the view he woke up to each day, and cheering on his beloved Ohio State Buckeyes. He never missed an episode of Jeopardy! and worked crossword puzzles daily. Music was the soundtrack of his life-he sang constantly and always dreamed of learning to play the piano.
Richard was truly one of a kind-a character, a storyteller, a friend, and a man who loved deeply and lived fully. Around this time of year, he was fond of quoting, "Does anyone know where the love of God goes when the winds of November come early?" Now, at last, he knows.
Thank you, Richard, for 85 wonderful years of love, laughter, and unforgettable memories. You will be deeply missed and forever loved.
There will be no visitation or services.
Young Family Funeral Home, Kendallville Chapel, 222 South State Street, Kendallville is assisting the family with arrangements.
Share memories or condolences at www.youngfamilyfuneralhome.com