Richard Allen Daberko

Richard Allen Daberko, age 69, of New Philadelphia, died unexpectedly early Wednesday, February 25, 2026, in his residence.

Born in Union Hospital at Dover on January 26, 1957, Dick was a son of Patsy Kohler Swank of New Philadelphia and the late Donald Swank.

He was a 1975 graduate of New Philadelphia High School and immediately began a 30-year career with the Ohio Department of Transportation as a crane operator for special projects. Upon his retirement, Dick kept busy working alongside his good friend, Jim Orr, as the two restored and worked on classic cars and trucks. Dick was also an animal lover who enjoyed his family pets, especially his macaw, Harley. Dick also appreciated finding new straight razors and Hot Wheels to add to his extensive collections.

In addition to his mother, Dick will be deeply missed by his wife of 31 years, Cindy Bell Daberko, their sons, Devon (Shelby) Daberko, Ryan Daberko; step-daughter, Alyssa (Eric) Ford all of New Philadelphia, his grandchildren, Richard, Ryker, Marlee, and Connor; a brother, Ed (Renee) Daberko also of New Philadelphia and many nieces and nephews.

In addition to his step-father, Dick was preceded in death by a granddaughter, Brynlee Rae, and a sister, Val Gibbs.

Inurnment will take place in Schoenbrunn Meadows Burial Park at New Philadelphia on Saturday, April 11, 2026, at 11 AM. A celebration of Dick's life will begin at Noon in the New Philadelphia VFW. The Linn-Hert-Geib Funeral Home & Crematory is handling arrangements.