Richard Carl Luft Jr

Richard Carl "Rick" Luft Jr., age 62, of Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio, went to heaven in the arms of Jesus Saturday August 5, 2023. This was an unexpected loss for everyone.

Rick was born August 2, 1961 in Michigan to the late Richard and Nancy (nee Leslie) Luft, as the second of four children. Rick graduated from Buckeye High school and enlisted into the Army as an Infantryman with the 82nd Airborne Division at the young age of 17 in 1979.

In 1992, Rick welcomed his beloved daughter, Sallie, into the world. This is a moment that filled him with indescribable pride and joy. As he watched her grow, he cherished every milestone, a testament to his profound fulfillment in being a father. In 2012 and 2018 Rick was blessed with two grandchildren, Gavin and Lillian. For him, being a grandfather was not just a title but more of an honor and joy, and he loved nothing more than the precious moments he shared with them. These two roles would be considered his most cherished title.

After an honorable discharge from the military, Rick found himself involved with the Painter's Union, where he worked for many years of his life until retirement at age 61. This busy career path did not keep Rick from his many hobbies. Rick loved his bicycle, 'Black Betty', and has put many miles into cycling marathons for various charities and benefits. He also had a deep passion and love for snow, skiing specifically. There are not many mountains or ski resorts that Rick has not been to. He also enjoyed hunting and fishing and has his 'trophies' proudly displayed.

Rick loved to spend time with his friends and family. He was an active member of the DAV (Disabled American Veterans), and assisted many people down the slopes in sit-skis or other devices. He is a cherished member of this community and has touched many hearts and lives along his path. Rick, as a veteran himself, loved and thoroughly enjoyed assisting others to be able to share his passion of his hobbies.

You never had to look too far for him, as he could be found skiing the slopes, spending time with his daughter and grandchildren, fishing, hanging out with his army buddies or helping his friends.

His life, his love, and his wisdom will continue through this side of eternity through the legacy he leaves in each of us. We will always find him in the things that remind us of how he loved each and every one of us.

Rick is survived by his daughter, two grandchildren, three siblings, and many nieces, nephews and all of the 'Greats'. Rick is also survived by his many friends who have become family, the people who he has gifted the right and ability to be involved in his life. Rick will be missed by all, but never forgotten.

There will be a funeral service at 12:00 PM to celebrate Richard Carl "Rick" Luft Jr's life on Tuesday, August 22, 2023 at Newcomer Funeral Home, 131 North Canton Road, Akron, Ohio 44305.

Family and friends may visit from 10:00 AM -12:00 PM at the funeral home on Tuesday.

Burial to follow at Western Reserve National Cemetery in Seville at 2:15pm.

To share a memory of Richard or leave a special message for his family, please visit the guestbook below.

Rick's service service will be livestreamed at the scheduled service time. Click Here to view the service.