Richard “Dick” Wayne Raptis of Cambridge, Ohio passed away peacefully at his home on August 11, 2024 after a long illness. He was born on March 13, 1953 in Cambridge, Ohio, the eldest child of the late Richard “Dick” Sr. and Aileen Raptis. He graduated from Cambridge High School in 1971, where he was very active in football and wrestling. On October 21, 1972, he married the love of his life, Nancy Goodwill, and they started a family with two beautiful children, Brian and Julie. Dick and Nancy were married for 51 wonderful years.
Dick apprenticed in his father’s building company, Dick Raptis and Sons Construction, learning and mastering his trade to become a master bricklayer and stonemason. After his father’s death, he continued to run the company alongside his brothers before setting up his own business, Raptis Masonry. He later joined forces with Tim Higgins of Cambridge-based Higgins Construction. The two continued to work side by side with their love of masonry. Although he was “semi-retired”, he continued to work until he was no longer able to work due to his illness at the beginning of the year.
Dick’s passion was his family, his work and his community. He was a kind and generous soul and always ready to help when needed. He especially enjoyed being Grandpa “Poppy” to two grandchildren, Blake and Brock Stashonsky. He beamed with pride as they pursued their passion and made careers as linemen in the trades. He was active in the community and supported the Elks Lodge 448 of Cambridge, Fraternal Order of Eagles 386 of Cambridge, Moose Lodge 631 of Cambridge and VFW Post 2901 of Cambridge. He loved football and was an avid 49ers fan. He never knew strangers. He had a mischievous, fun side and enjoyed life to the fullest, making many deep-rooted friendships. He was president of the Dirty “B” Club, for which he will be remembered.
Dick is survived by his beloved wife Nancy, his son Brian Raptis of Cambridge, his daughter Julie Stashonsky of Zanesville and her fiancé Brian Fulks of Zanesville. His grandchildren Blake and Brock Stashonsky of Zanesville. His brothers Willard and Robert of Cambridge. His sisters Cathy (Craig) Ferrari of Cambridge, Deborah Raptis of Greenville, Ohio, and Connie (Raptis) Arnold of Kansas City, Missouri. His loving cousin Michael St. Clair. His sisters-in-law Carol (Chuck) Carter of Cambridge, Rita Ikes (Dick Fisher), Bonnie (Tim) Slima of Georgia. His brother-in-law George Heldman of Cambridge and many aunts, cousins, nephews and nieces.
He was preceded in death by his son-in-law, John Stashonsky. His parents were Richard Sr. and Aileen Jerles Raptis. His parents-in-law, Raymond and Betty Goodwill of Cambridge. Three brothers: Daniel “Danny” (2003), Larry (2015), and Tony (2015); sister-in-law, Patti Heldman. Grandparents, Richard and Inez Raptis of Cambridge; Ralph and Thelma Jerles of Byesville. And his close friend, Randy Porter.
He always had a smile for everyone who walked into the room and loved his work. His artistry, talent and dedication to his profession left a mark on the community. The family has peace knowing that in heaven he will be in no more pain and will be reunited with all those who have gone before him. Dick loved his family and friends. All who knew him knew how proud he was of his beautiful stone cabin that he masterfully built on the family property. This was his PEACEFUL, HAPPY PLACE.
Revelation 21:4 “He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more; neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore; for the former things have passed away.” May our memory of Dick endure forever.
An open day will be held to celebrate life on August 24, 2024 from 13:00-17:00 at Eagles Lodge, 1930 E. Wheeling Ave. Cambridge, OH 43725The family welcomes all who wish to come and honor Dick’s life.
The family would like to extend a special thank you to Hospice of Guernsey County for their care and support during this difficult time. Chandler Funeral Home & Cremation Service, 609 West Street, Caldwell, OH 43724 has been entrusted with the care of the family. Please join us in remembering Dick by visiting his memorial at www.ChandlerFuneralHome.net.
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