Richard Delaquila Sr. 1937-2025

He was born Jan. 8, 1937, in Warren, the son of Michael and Mable DeMaria Delaquila, and remained a proud lifelong resident of the area.

A 1955 graduate of Warren G. Harding High School, Richard was honored to be selected for Buckeye Boys State in Columbus. He went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in accounting from Youngstown State University and served his country proudly in the United States Army. He was also a devoted member of St. James Church.

Richard built a long and successful career, spending over 30 years with Thomas Steel before joining his lifelong friend Don Livi at Livi Steel, where he worked for another 28 years until retiring in 2013. For many years, he also prepared personal and business tax returns. Among friends, he was affectionately known as “The Auditor” for his sharp financial mind and attention to detail.

Outside of work, Richard had a deep love for life and a passion for storytelling. He enjoyed playing cards, visiting casinos and betting on horse races — a tradition that included attending the Kentucky Derby for many years. He had an unmatched memory and a gift for spinning tales that entertained all who knew him.

Sports were at the heart of Richard’s world. A lifelong Cleveland sports fan, he was perhaps best known as one of JFK High School’s most devoted supporters, rarely missing a game. As a younger man, he played both fast-pitch and slow-pitch softball and was instrumental in the installation of ball field lights at Packard Park. He later coached his son in Class B Baseball with Livi Steel and his granddaughter, Amanda, in softball — always taking great pride in their efforts.

Above all else, Richard’s greatest joy was his family. He was a dedicated husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather. He shared over 53 wonderful years of marriage with his beloved wife, Bonnie Polivka Delaquila, whom he married on Oct. 13, 1962, and who passed away June 20, 2015.

Richard is survived by his loving son, Richie Jr. (Trish) Delaquila, with whom he made his home; his cherished grandchildren, Richie Delaquila III, Amanda Delaquila, Ashley (Nate) Miller and John-John Desantis; and his adored great-grandchildren, Mia and Arya. He also leaves behind his brother, Mike Delaquila; nephews, Sam (Joanne), David (Laura) and Michael (Oliva) Delaquila; great-nieces, Angela and Alycia Delaquila, and Abby (Calvin) Evans; a great-great-nephew, Reese; and his beloved Husky, Akira; along with many cousins and dear friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Bonnie; brother and sister-in-law, Sam and Dorthy Delaquila; sister-in-law, Barbara Delaquila; niece, Vicki Delaquila; and his in-laws, George and Mary Polivka.

Calling hours will be 11 to 11:50 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 6, 2025, at St. Teresa of Calcutta Parish- Blessed Sacrament Church, 3020 Reeves Road NE, Warren, followed by a funeral Mass at noon, officiated by the Rev. Christopher Cicero.

Richard will be entombed in Pineview Memorial Park, Warren.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to the staff of Southern Care Hospice for their compassion and care during this difficult time.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations in Richard’s name to The Healthy Hearts and Paws Project, 909 Martin Luther King Blvd. SW, Warren, OH 44485; or JFK High School Athletic Fund, 2550 Central Pkwy., Warren, OH 44484.

Arrangements are entrusted to Peter Rossi & Son Memorial Chapel, 1884 North Road NE, Warren. Family and friends can share their condolences and view the obituary at www.peterrossiandsonfh.com.

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