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Richard Lautensleger


Richard Lautensleger

January 1, 1942 – December 7, 2024


Richard Lautensleger, born January 1, 1942, in Baltic, Ohio, passed away peacefully on December 7, 2024, in Des Moines, Iowa, at the age of 82. A beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, Richard’s life was defined by dedication, innovation, and service to others.

 

Proud of his roots, Richard often shared stories of his early years in a farmhouse in rural Eastern Ohio. A graduate of Baltic High School’s Class of 1960, he went on to earn a BS in Civil Engineering from The Ohio State University in 1966 and an MS in Structural Engineering from the University of Cincinnati in 1971.

 

It was in Cincinnati that Richard met Mary, the love of his life and his wife of 52 years. Together, they built a family filled with love and adventure, beginning with the adoption of Kristen in 1976, followed by the births of Kirk in 1977 and Tiffany in 1980. Richard’s greatest joy came from supporting his children’s interests, mentoring them through life’s challenges, and cherishing the unique personalities of his grandchildren, with whom he shared countless treasured moments.

 

Richard enjoyed a distinguished career as a research engineer at Armco Inc. which later became AK Steel. He earned several patents for innovations in roof construction and design, including advancements in structural stability and efficient construction methods, which continue to influence modern techniques today. In the 1980s, Richard contributed his expertise internationally, making significant improvements to bridge design and safety in Colombia, Ecuador, and Brazil.

 

His professional achievements were matched by a steadfast commitment to service. Richard volunteered with Habitat for Humanity and the Carolinas Aviation Museum, and he was a devoted partner in supporting Mary’s ministry as a Methodist pastor.

 

In his retirement, Richard embraced his passions for gardening, fitness, travel, and computer maintenance. An avid traveler, he explored 47 states and numerous countries across six continents, delighting in the unique cultures and landscapes he encountered. Though Antarctica eluded him, he relished the adventures he experienced and the connections he made along the way. His adventurous spirit also led him to become a private pilot from 1971 to 1981, a reflection of his boundless curiosity and love for exploration.

 

Richard’s integrity, work ethic, and generosity touched all who knew him. He was predeceased by his daughter Kristen and is survived by his wife, Mary; their children, Kirk and Tiffany; his 8 grandchildren; 1 great-grandchild and many other loving family members and friends.

 

Honoring Richard’s wishes, there will be no public memorial service. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to Habitat for Humanity or the Carolinas Aviation Museum, two causes dear to his heart.

 

Richard’s legacy of love, service, and adventure will live on in the hearts of all who knew him, inspiring future generations to embrace life with purpose and compassion.

 

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