Richard Vernon Tester, 98, of Emerald Village, North Olmsted, Ohio, passed away on Wednesday, September 27, 2023 under the care of Ames Family Hospice House in Westlake. He was born on November 17, 1924 to the late Thomas and Mamee A. (nee Wolfe) Tester and was a graduate of New London High School.

Richard worked at Harshaw Chemical in Elyria as an Environmental Technician for 40 years. He was also a member of the LaGrange Lions Club. Richard lived in Florida for many years, where he attended the Terra Ceia Methodist Church. He was an excellent gardener and enjoyed growing citrus fruit and roses. Camping was a favorite past time and in his spare time, he loved to do puzzles.

Richard is survived by his children, Linda (Terry) Janik, Edward (Becky) Tester and Betty Tester (David) Durasin; grandchildren, Patricia Reed-Wagner, Chet Janik, Margie Wendell, Phillip Reed, Christina Seabold, Maureen "Mo" Breckner and Colleen Stebel; and 10 great grandchildren. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife of nearly 70 years, Lois (nee Downey) Tester; siblings, James, Mary, Clyde and Donald.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, October 28 beginning at 2 p.m. at Bay United Methodist Church, 29931 Lake Rd, Bay Village, 44140. In lieu of flowers, donations in Richard's memory may be given to Terra Ceia Methodist Church, 599 K. Hubbard Road, Terra Ceia, FL 34250, or the Hospice of the Western Reserve, PO Box 72101, Cleveland, OH 44192. Online condolences may be given at www.norton-eastmanfuneralhome.com.