It is with deep sadness that we share the passing of Richard Allen Harden (70), who left us on February 19th, 2025 after a courageous and short battle with cancer.

Richard Allen Harden was born on May 15th, 1954 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania to Charles and Dolores (Degenkolb) Harden.  Richard grew up in the Cleveland area and was a sports fan of the Browns, Cavs and Guardians.  He was a proud veteran and gave his service to the United States Navy.  He spent his working years with the North Olmsted City School District, as well as on the courts and fields in the surrounding areas as a coach/referee/umpire.  He loved playing golf, and after he retired he was able to enjoy a position at the Gleneagles Golf Course, which was always followed by a round after his shift.

In the short time he battled cancer, Richard showed immense strength and resilience, facing the illness with grace and determination that inspired all that knew him.  Though his time with us was shortened, his impact was lasting, and he will be remembered for his big smile, his holiday poetry readings, and his Christmas spirit as he played the Jolly 'ol elf himself.

Richard leaves behind his wife Darlene; his children Julie (Larry) Ellis, Matthew (Megan) Harden and Geralyn Lill (Bill Wozney); his stepchildren Tracy Abbott, Rob (Christine) Pesicka, and Kenny Pesicka; his grandchildren Kaylie, Eric, Maddie, Abbie, Ava, Emilee, Owen, Brody, Ella, Declan and Brynlie; his brother Curtis Harden and nephews Keith Ungrady and Tyler Harden; along with extended family and dear friends who will all miss him dearly.  He was preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Dolores (Degenkolb) Harden, his brother Keith Harden, and his son-in-law Thomas Lill.

A celebration of life will be held on Sunday March 9th, 2025, from 1p-5p at Gleneagles Golf Club in Twinsburg.  Stop by for a drink and share your own personal stories about Richard with us.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Saint Jude.

Though his time on this earth was short, his memory will live on in the hearts of those who loved him.  He will be dearly missed and forever remembered.