Richard James DeBacco

RICHARD JAMES DeBACCO age 83, beloved husband of Terry (nee Fleaka) for 49 years; loving father of Maureen DeBacco-Kirksey (husband Randy), Mark (wife Donna), Michelle Chiacchiari (husband Mark), Richard “Rick” Jr., and Daniel “Dan” (wife Katrina); devoted grandfather of Josh, Jordan, Ashton, Aurelia, Olivia and Armand, cherished son of the late Armand and Genevieve DeBacco-Mangan (nee Choppa) (husband Michael, deceased); dearest brother of Karen Fitzpatrick, Patrick Mangan, and the late Michael Mangan; dear uncle and great-uncle of many.

Richard was born on May 29, 1941, in Hubbard, Ohio. Upon his graduation from Ursuline High School, he continued his education at Villanova University in Pennsylvania. Hardworking, he was a founding member of Garland Industries in Cleveland, Ohio. He served as the company’s President from 1987 until 2003 and then successfully served as CEO Emeritus until his retirement. Richard was a devote Catholic throughout his entire life. His “Familia” or family was everything to him and loved spending time with not only his immediate family but his extended family as well. Those who knew him, knew he loved boating at Lake Chautauqua in New York, and taking trips to Southwest Florida, Napa California, and Italy. He also enjoyed his time back home watching the Cleveland Browns, Cleveland Indians/Guardians and the Ohio State Buckeyes. He was also an avid collector of classic cars that he loved from his youth. On September 25, 2024, Richard passed away with loving family by his side. 

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in memory of Richard to Catholic Charities, Diocese of Cleveland. 

Mass of Christian Burial Saturday, September 28, 2024, at Our Lady Chapel at Gilmour Academy, 34001 Cedar Rd, Gates Mills, OH 44040, at 11 AM. Livestreaming available for those who are unable to attend in person at: https://www.facebook.com/ourladychapel 

We apologize for the inconvenience, but due to technical difficulties there is currently no livestreaming to be viewed. Please check back for a possible recording of the Funeral Mass.

Family will receive friends to pay tribute to and celebrate the life of Richard at THE DeJOHN FUNERAL HOME & CELEBRATIONS CENTER OF CHESTERLAND 12811 CHILLICOTHE ROAD (Rt. 306, just south of Mayfield Rd.) Friday September 27th from 1-5 PM. 

The visiting hours will begin with a Prayer Service at 1PM.