Robert Alan “Bob” Richard, age 61, of Independence, Ohio passed away unexpectedly on Friday, October 2, 2026. He was born on May 26, 1965, in Beaver Falls, Pennsylvania, the youngest of four children to the (late) Alan Louis and Betty Jane (Srmack) Richard. Bob was preceded in death by his brother, William. He is survived by his brother David (Cheryl) of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, sister Mary Ellen McHugh (Paul) of Canonsburg, Pennsylvania, and sister-in-law Joy of Dayton, Ohio, along with numerous nieces and nephews. Bob was the beloved husband of Kathleen (Hughes) Richard and a loyal and dedicated father to his daughters, Elizabeth and Margaret. He was a wonderful husband, father, son, brother, brother-in-law, uncle, and friend. After graduating from Beaver Falls High School, Bob earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Metallurgical Engineering from the University of Pittsburgh and later received his Master of Business Administration from the University of Chicago. He honorably served in the United States Navy, achieving the rank of Lieutenant as a Nuclear Propulsion Plant Engineer during Desert Storm. Following his Navy service, Bob began his career in the steel industry, while also becoming a Certified Public Accountant, Certified Management Accountant, and a Chartered Financial Analyst. He advanced through a wide range of engineering, financial, and leadership positions, most notably the Chief Financial Officer of various steel-related companies. He will be remembered for his generosity, humor, intelligence, dedication, strong character, accomplishments, and the many relationships he built throughout his life. Bob had a gift for bringing wit and laughter into the lives of those around him. Though his life was unexpectedly cut short, he will be greatly missed and lovingly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him. 

In lieu of flowers the family suggests contributions to the Greater Cleveland Food Bank, www.greaterclevelandfoodbank.org.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend his Mass of Christian Burial at Saint Dominic Church, 3450 Norwood Road, Shaker Heights, Ohio, on Tuesday, October 13, 2026, at 11 a.m. Family will receive friends at the Ripepi Funeral Home, 5762 Pearl Road (at Snow Road), Monday from 4–7 p.m. A private interment with military honors will take place at the Ohio Western Reserve National Cemetery.