Walter D. "Dick" Gifford, Jr.

Walter D. “Dick” Gifford, Jr., 72, of Stone Creek, passed away on Saturday, February 3, 2024, in New Dawn Rehab and Healthcare Center at Dover. 

Born on April 21, 1951, in Painesville, OH, Dick was the only child of the late Walter D. and Marie (Bihari) Gifford. He graduated from Willoughby South High School in 1970. He spent two years attending an electronics school in the Cleveland area. He was drafted into the United States Army in 1972 and served most of his time at a military base in Wertheim, West Germany,

working in communications and radio repair. He was honorably discharged in 1974. Once he returned to his home in Willoughby, Dick began his career as an electronic technician for Bailey Meter in Wickliffe, Ohio. He retired after 44 years of service to the company. 

Dick spent much of his childhood visiting his grandparents on their farm in Angel Valley, outside of Stone Creek, Ohio. After his retirement, he was able to fulfill a lifelong dream to return and buy a home that overlooks the farm where he had so many fond memories. 

Dick was a man of many talents and passions. He played numerous musical instruments, including clarinet and piano. His taste in music extended across several genres, but he was especially fond of the Beatles, John Denver, and Jan and Dean. He loved riding on trains,collected model trains, and was a faithful supporter of the Painesville Railroad Depot Museum.

He was proud of his Hungarian heritage and relished attending family reunions. He loved watching old movies, especially WWII movies and B-grade horror/sci-fi flicks. Dick approached life with enthusiasm and a cheerful optimism. 

He will be greatly missed by his extended family which includes his uncle, William Bihari of New Philadelphia, numerous cousins, and extended family members. 

A graveside service will be held on Saturday, February 10, 2024, at 2 PM in Stone Creek Cemetery at Stone Creek with Pastor Leanna Roe officiating. Military honors will be conducted by the New Philadelphia VFW Post #1445.

After the service, family and friends will gather for a meal at Grace Community Church in Stone Creek to reminisce about the good times spent with Dick. 

The Linn-Hert-Geib Funeral Home in New Philadelphia has been entrusted with his service arrangements.