Richard William Morris, 87

Richard William Morris passed away February 26th at the St. Elizabeth Medical Center in Boardman after an extended illness.

He was born April 26, 1926 in Poughkeepsie, New York, the first child of Leon and Aleen Morris. Two years later his sister, now Mary ann (Newmarker) of Sante Fe, New Mexico was born. Dick attended Struthers high School where he played football. Upon graduation he enlisted in the U.S. Navy. A severe injury shortened his stay in the service. After recovering, he studied architecture for a while at the Ohio State University.

It was in Columbus, Ohio that he met Mary Pat Smith while working for her father. On June 19, 1948 they were married and returned to Youngstown to start a family and a new career. Richard founded Morris Drain Service and Morris Septic Service. in the years to follow, Dick and Mary raised five children; Betty Ann of Canfield, Dana of Canfield, Bob (Janie) of Canfield, Don (Tami) of Dublin, Ohio and Ron (Sheri) of Poland. In his life he was blessed with 12 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren.

Dick was an avid bowler and private pilot, flying out of Southern Airways of Boardman. His work ethic made a lasting impression upon his children, four of whom now operate Morris Drain Service.

He was preceded in death by his wife Mary Pat. The family has deep gratitude for the caregivers along the way. Windsor Health Services and St. Elizabeth Boardman Campus.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be given in his memory to the Rescue Mission of Mahoning Valley, 962 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.,Youngstown, Ohio 44510

Calling hours will be at  the New Life Church at 2250 E. Western Reserve Road, Poland on Saturday, March 1st from 3;00 to 4:00  P.M. followed by a memorial service.