Richard August Schlegel

 Richard August Schlegel, 92, of Fairview, died at home surrounded by his loving family on November 26, 2024.

He was born in Pittsburgh, Pa., on December 15, 1931, to the late John Emil Schlegel and Mary Halpin Schlegel. He grew up in Pittsburgh which formed his life-long love of the city and its sports teams. He graduated from North Catholic High School in 1949 and from The University of Pittsburgh in 1953. He joined the U.S. Army in 1954 and was stationed in Alaska where he learned Russian to monitor military radio communications. After leaving the Army, he began a 36-year career in pharmaceutical sales with Parke-Davis. After a short time in Pittsburgh and Steubenville, Ohio, Richard transferred to Erie where he retired from Pfizer Corporation in 1994. 

He was predeceased by his beloved wife, Carroll First Schlegel, in 1999, after 42 years of marriage. He is survived by his four children Lisa (Scott McNelis), Michelle, Maureen, and Kurt (Patty Schlegel). In addition, he is survived by his five grandchildren Kiernan, Garrett, Brynne, Lia, and Logan. Richard lived in Fairview for over 60 years where he and his wife were founding members of Holy Cross Church and developed a strong circle of friends affectionately known as “Gourmet” due to their festive dinner parties. 

He was a dedicated husband, father, and grandfather who loved family gatherings, beach vacations, and lively conversations around the dinner table. He was an avid reader who loved history and politics. Richard had a dry and witty sense of humor which his family and friends always enjoyed.

A viewing will be held at Holy Cross Church, Fairview, on Friday November 29 from 2:00 to 4:00 pm and 6:00 to 8:00 pm. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at Holy Cross Church on Saturday November 30 at 10:00 am. Internment will be held at Gate of Heaven Cemetery following the Mass. 

Arrangements entrusted to the Burton Funeral Home, 525 Main Street East, Girard.

Send condolence at www.BurtonQuinnScott.com