Richard Joseph Miska

Richard Joseph “Dick” Miska

Age 96, son of the late Joseph and Stella Miska (nee Miciak), was preceded in death by his beloved wife Carol Miska (nee Hecker), his brother William Miska, his son-in law Michael Radigan, and great-grandson Richard Branford “Ford” Miska. He is survived by his sister Terrie Grospitch (Roy) and sister-in-law Joan Miska.

Richard was the loving father to Kathleen Hechko (Paul), Richard Miska (Cindy), and Laura Radigan. He was a cherished grandfather to Adam Hechko (Jennifer), Sara Fondran (Jason), William Miska (Lauren), Kevin Radigan, Alexander Miska (Katharine), Julie Bendzuck (Zachary), and Lauren Dorton (Beau). He was the proud great-grandfather to Alexander Hechko, Benjamin Hechko, Nicholas Fondran, Cate Hechko, Zachary Fondran, Jaxson Miska, Mason Miska, Lennon Miska, Logan Bendzuck, Penelope Dorton, and Cole Bendzuck. He was loved by many nieces and nephews.

The son of a Polish immigrant father and Polish mother, and the long time proprietor of Miska’s Tavern in Olmsted Falls, Richard was known for his sharp wit and calm demeanor. As the new kid in town, Richard met the love of his life Carol in the halls of Olmsted Falls School. Their love was fierce and enduring, their 63 years together became a model of devotion for all who knew them. When he was no longer gettin’ by serving up the best suds and Carol Burgers in town, Richard became a trusted ear to all who knew and loved him. A child of the Great Depression, Richard carried with him a lifelong curiosity and quiet creativity. He passed on his love of reading, took immense pride in his hydrangeas and roses, designed leaded glass, and showed his love in the small ways that mattered most-often spending hours creating birthday, anniversary and Christmas cards for family and friends. From cheering on his grandkids, hosting Polish Opens, and falling for his beloved Cleveland Indians, sports became one of his greatest connectors. Though he often joked that it was “hell getting old,” Richard never lost his fascination with new technologies, mastering Photoshop and fully embracing the use of emojis. As family patriarch his ear held many secrets. Gifted with a calm nature and intense love he guided his family together through the many ups and downs of life. Richard died peacefully at home on December 19, 2025. Ma, I’m headin’ for the barn.

A memorial mass will be held Monday, January 12, 2026 at 10:30 am at St. Mary of the Falls, 25615 Bagley Road, Olmsted Falls, Ohio. A private internment will occur at a later date.

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