Richard James Cheslock, age 92, of New Philadelphia died peacefully Wednesday, June 3, 2026 with his family by his side while in the care of Ohio Hospice Truman House at New Philadelphia.

Born in his family’s home at New Philadelphia on December 12, 1933, Richard was the son of the late Frank and Victoria (Swider) Cheslock, Sr.

He was a 1951 graduate of New Philadelphia High School. While in high school Richard played saxophone in the Quaker Marching Band. This began a love of music that followed him throughout his life. After high school he served in the US Army and played saxophone in the Army band traveling throughout Europe, which gave him leadership and knowledge that propelled him to President of the local Musician’s Union for many years and also began a career with some of his best friends to form the band called The Nite Owls. On October 26, 1957, he married the love of his life the former Helen Sullie which they enjoyed 55 years of marriage before her passing in 2013.

Richard worked hard all of his life and never truly retired. He started his career at Reeves Steel Corporation as a mail clerk and worked his way up to Traffic Manager. After 33 years at Reeves, he continued his working life with Slats and Nails as Warehouse Manager providing valuable knowledge and guidance to his employees. He ended his career with his lifelong friend at New England Construction where he enjoyed some of his most memorable times of his life. He was a lifetime (70 years) member of the Elks Club and truly enjoyed an active social life. He exercised all his emotions following his Indians, CAVS and Browns, as well as The Buckeyes, Fighting Irish and Duke Blue Devels. His true sporting enjoyment was watching and following his children and grandchildren participating in their favorite sporting activities.

Being the youngest of 12 children, family gatherings were very important to him.

In addition to his parents, Richard was preceded in death by his wife, Helen Cheslock; and siblings, Anna Cheslock, Andrew Cheslock, Stanley Cheslock, Mary Cheslock Korpon, John Cheslock, Antoinette “Nettie” Cheslock Curtis, Joseph Cheslock, Frank Cheslock, Jr., Walter Cheslock, Julia Cheslock Suder Swaney, and Agnus Cheslock Helmsdoerfer; and grand-dog, Bo.

Richard will be missed by his three children, Laura (husband, Jeff) Spray, Mike (Jacki) Cheslock, and Brenda (Kevin) Cheslock; three grandsons, Scott (Lexi) Spray, Kevin (Joanna) Spray, and Adam (Cara) Spray; great-grandchildren, Riley, Rowan, Perry, Miles, Weston and Ella; and numerous nieces, nephews and extended family.

The family will greet guests on Sunday, June 7, 2026, from 1:00 – 4:00 PM in the Linn-Hert-Geib Funeral Home & Crematory at New Philadelphia. Father Jeff Coning will lead a service celebrating Richard’s life in the funeral home’s chapel on Monday, June 8, 2026 at 10:30 AM. Burial will follow in the Calvary Cemetery at New Philadelphia with a celebration of life at one of his favorite establishments, Magoo’s Pizza, Pasta & More.

Memorial contributions in Richard’s name may be directed to Tuscarawas Central Catholic Music Program, 777 3rd St. NE, New Philadelphia, OH 44663.