Richard Alan “Dick” Sulsberger

Richard Alan “Dick” Sulsberger lived a life that was rich in family, friendship, service, and purpose, leaving behind a legacy that will continue for generations. A devoted husband, proud father, beloved grandfather known as “Poppy,” little brother and friend.

Dick passed away peacefully on July 25, 2026, at home surrounded by the love of his family after a courageous but brief battle with a cancer as rare as he was.

Born on November 23, 1952, in Barnesville, Ohio, Dick was the son of Francis “Tink” Sulsberger and Rosalie Sulsberger. He grew up in Monroe County alongside his siblings, Susan (Mike) Murray, Tom (Jane) Sulsberger, and Margie Hannahs, and remained deeply rooted in the community throughout his life. A proud 1971 graduate of Woodsfield High School, Dick was a lifelong resident of Woodsfield and a devoted community advocate for the place he called home.

On November 15, 1975, he married the love of his life, Karen Lafferre. Together they built a remarkable life and recently celebrated 50 years of marriage, a milestone that reflected the enduring commitment, partnership, and love that defined their relationship.

Above all, Dick’s greatest joy was his family. He was the proud father of Abby, Ryan, and Louie, and nothing brought him greater happiness than spending time with his children and grandchildren, Donovan, Dalton, and Elin.

A lifelong entrepreneur, Dick built a successful career across multiple industries, including oil and gas, construction, real estate, and automotive sales. He dedicated more than 40 years to G-R Contracting and he continued where his career started in car sales as the current owner of Unlimited Auto.

His impact extended far beyond business. Dick was deeply invested in the growth of the community. He served multiple terms as the President of the Monroe County Chamber of Commerce, a Board Member of Barnesville Hospital, supported the first Saddle Horse Barn at the Monroe County Fairground, played a leadership role within the Economic Development Committee, and served as an advisor to the Baker Foundation. This commitment to improving his community earned him recognition as a nominee for the Ohio Businessman of the Year.

While his accomplishments were numerous, those who knew him best will remember something far more important-his personality. Dick had a way of making every room more interesting simply by walking into it. Whether he was sharing advice, telling a joke, pushing the limits, offering to taste test the food or to be the official snack coordinator.

When he was the happiest, Dick was surrounded by family. He often joked that visits were always too short since “the car didn’t even have time to cool off’ before everyone had to leave again. Naturally curious and endlessly inquisitive, he loved learning about new products, exploring business opportunities, studying real estate markets, and taking on renovation projects. He especially cherished cheering on his grandchildren at their sporting events and celebrating all of their successes.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Francis “Tink” and Rosalie Sulsberger, and his beloved in-laws, Donald and Ruth Lafferre.

He is survived by his wife Karen; his children, Abby, Ryan, and Louie; his grandchildren, Donovan, Dalton, and Elin; his siblings, Susan (Mike) Murray, Tom (Jane) Sulsberger, and Margie Hannahs; and countless extended family members and friends.

Continuing a legacy of faith, compassion, and second chances two funds have been created to honor his memory. Dick was a member of the First United Methodist Church of Woodsfield. Throughout his final journey, his faith provided strength and comfort to both him and those who loved him. Dick was also notorious for carrying dog treats in his pocket and never met a dog that didn’t instantly want to be his friend. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions to Cross Paws Animal Shelter, 41383 Stonehouse Road, Woodsfield, Ohio, designated to Paws for Parker and the First United Methodist Church of Woodsfield, 136 N. Main Street, Woodsfield, Ohio, in memory of Richard Sulsberger.

A limb has fallen from our family tree. Our hearts are broken but grateful for the gift of his life. Visitation will be held at Bauer-Turner Funeral Home on Thursday, July 30, from 4:00-8:00 p.m. and Friday, July 31, at 10:00 a.m., followed by a celebration of life at 11:00 a.m.