Richard John Grein Jr.

Richard John Grein Jr., of Lancaster, passed away on July 14, 2024. He was born to the late Richard and Florence Grein on September 13, 1944.

Richard graduated from Bishop Fenwick High School in 1962. In 1965 he enlisted in the United States Air Force where he served until 1969. Richard worked for over 20 years as a mold maker at Anchor Hocking, and for 4 years at the Fairfield County Sheriff’s office. In May of 1977 he proudly enlisted in the Air National Guard’s 160th Air Refueling Group. In June of 1986 he became a full time Air Technician, and eventually became the Inflight Refueling Program Manager of the 145th Air Refueling Squadron of the 121sth Air Refueling Wing, Rickenbacker ANG, Base. Richard retired from the Air National Guard on September 11, 2004, as a Chief Master Sergeant with 33 years of military service. As those closest to him would know, Richard loved all animals, including his dogs, cats, and horses. He greatly valued his time in the U.S. Air Force as well as the camaraderie of the men and women he served with. 

He is survived by his children, Sheryl Galko of Hilliard, OH, Dave (Stephanie) Grein of Mokena, IL, and Joseph (Cameron) Grein of Girard, OH; granddaughters, Sydney Grein and Lyndsey Grein; and grandsons, Creed Galko and Cade Galko.

Richard is preceded in death by his siblings, Raymond (Eileen) Grein, Mary (James) Perry, Jane (Thomas) Young, and Marcelene (John) Mallon; and parents.

A funeral service will take place on Friday, July 19, 2024 at 10:30 AM in the FRANK E. SMITH FUNERAL HOME CHAPEL, 405 N Columbus St., Lancaster, OH 43130. Burial will follow in St. Mary Catholic Cemetery, Lancaster. Family and friends may visit from 6-8 PM at the funeral home on Thursday. 

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Fairfield Area Humane Society: https://www.fairhumane.org/.

To leave an online condolence and sign the guestbook, please visit www.funeralhome.com.