Richard "Dick" Mehnert

Beloved husband of Janet (nee Penttila), devoted son of Ruth McCandless and William Mehnert (both deceased). Although, he was his mother’s only child, he did have a half brother and sister who are also deceased. His early life was spent on Barber Ave. in Cleveland surrounded by his maternal grandparents Herman and Alta Scheutzow, Uncles and cousins, and of course his mother.

He was a standout football player for Old Lincoln High School. Was part of the “in” crowd and had a prime parking place for his brand new 1955 Thunderbird front and center at Lincoln his senior year in school. Rather James Dean like with curl in front and the DA hair cut. His jeans rolled up and his AMBOY DUKES jacket, he must have been the cat’s pajamas.

Early on in his life he became a Mason and a Shriner, although he wasn’t active later in life, he still supported these fraternal organizations. He was a proud member for over 60 years.

Started his career delivering news papers at an early age, worked at Central Cadillac, Dobeckman and finally found his vocation at Ohio Pipe and Supply. He remained in the Pipe Valve and Fitting industry until his death. He and Janet started J & M International around 1990 and it remains a reliable source for industrial valves today.

He was an excellent salesman as well as being an outstanding purchasing agent. He and Janet got to travel to Asia many, many times. He has been to all 50 states and beyond. And yet, he did not have the travel bug. He rather had tunnel vision to complete the task at hand. Be it sales, purchasing or both.

At 50, he took the plunge again and married Janet in Toronto. Honeymooned in Asia and settled in at their current home with his mother who lived with them until her passing. He loved being at home, Janet’s cooking and baking and a good stiff drink in hand. Why go out to dine when he could have a gourmet meal and great bottle of wine in the comfort of his own home.

Because of back issues, he had to give up tennis and racket ball. He loved to play and was fiercely competitive. He bowled earlier in his life as well as being a crew member on a sail boat.

He loved to spoil and indulge Janet. Their first trip to New York all those years ago, a beautiful bottle of parfum for Bergdorf Goodman. Chocolates from Godiva and a carriage ride through Central Park. How about all the silk fabrics from Jim Thompson in Thailand, or the commercial convention oven she just had to have. He never missed a birthday or an anniversary, flowers delivered early so she knew he didn’t forget.

He was loved by a few, a friend to many and will be missed by all.

Janet will receive friends Thursday, June 22, 2023, from 3-6 PM at Craciun Berry Funeral Home 7200 Detroit AVe. Cleveland, Ohio 44102. Immediately followed by a Celebration of Life Gathering held at 6:30 PM at The Summer House 12900 Lake Ave. Lakewood, Ohio 44102 (Located in the Carlyle).

In Lieu of flowers family suggest donation in Dick's Memory to Shriners International, 2900 North Rocky Point Drive. Tampa Florida, 33607 or Harding Concordia Lodge Number 345, 8922 Brecksville Rd., Brecksville, ohio 44141.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.craciunberryfuneral.com for the Mehnert family.