Richard “Dick” E. Kanable, Jr., 82, passed away on Tuesday, May 13, 2025, at his residence in Crestline. He was born in Bucyrus, Ohio on December 27, 1942, to the late Richard Kanable, Sr. and Donna (Brinkman) Smith. He was raised by his mother and stepfather, Millard “Mig” Smith, who played a significant role in shaping the man he became. Dick married Carol Jean (Hoover) Kanable on February 22, 1964, and she survives him.
Dick dedicated 42 years of his life to the Iron Workers Local 550, where he was a respected and valued member of the community. He proudly served his country in the United States Navy, embodying the spirit of service that shaped his character. A devoted member of the United Church of Christ, Dick was also involved with the Richard E. Kanable 37th Chapter of the Daughters of American Veterans, where he continued to foster the values of honor and support for his fellow veterans.
Beyond his professional endeavors, Dick enjoyed the simple pleasures of life. He was an avid golfer, enjoyed watching his favorite sports teams — the Cleveland Indians, the Cleveland Browns, and The Ohio State Buckeyes— and found joy in his hobbies as a skilled woodworker and welder. Often described as a handyman extraordinaire, there was nothing he couldn’t fix. His craftsmanship shined through not only in the works of art he created but also in the numerous flag poles that grace the county, signifying his patriotism and dedication.
Dick took immense pride in his home and yard, where he could often be found meticulously mowing the lawn, enjoying the tranquility of nature. His passion for community and care for his surroundings extended to being a trustee at Dapper Cemetery, where he worked diligently to ensure it remained a place of peace and respect.
In addition to his loving wife, Dick is survived by his children, Tina (John) James of Piqua, Chad (Laura) Kanable of Canton, and Taryn (Jeremy) Hutton of Caledonia, six grandchildren, Jackie Swartz, Karissa Carnes, Spencer James, Parker James, Otis Hutton, and Lennon Hutton, four great-grandchildren, Sophia Kershner, Bentley Kershner, Evelynn Thomas and Lucca Thomas; along with his two sisters, Karen (Dick) Grau and Kathy (Lee) Orewiler, both of Bucyrus.
Dick was preceded in death by his father, mother, stepfather and grandchild, Kirstin Carnes.
On Saturday, June 21, 2025, military honors by the U.S. Navy and the Crawford County Veterans Military Funeral Detail will begin at 2:00 PM at the American Legion, Post 181, 123 E. Rensselaer St., Bucyrus, OH 44820, followed by a Celebration of Life from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions may be made to Honor Flight, P.O. Box 20133, Columbus, OH 43220 or Colonel Crawford Athletic Boosters,5444 Crestline Road, Crestline, OH 44827.
Those wishing to share a memory of Dick or send condolences to the Kanable, Jr. family may do so by visiting www.masfh.com.
The Gompf Funeral Service – Crestline Chapel, 223 W. Main Street, Crestline is honored to serve the family of Richard “Dick” Edward Kanable, Jr.
Funeral Home: Gompf Funeral Service – Crestline Chapel
Website: masfh.com