Richard E. Vail

RICHARD E. VAIL Richard Vail, one of the bravest warriors ever to fight cancer was mercifully pulled from the war by his Lord and Savior, October 31. He had been battling pancreas and liver cancer for the past 16 months with unbelievable strength, courage, and grace. Rich was born November 29, 1949 to the late Earl Vail and Kathyrn Miller (Jack) who survives. He is a graduate of Waite High School and The University of Toledo where he earned three degrees. He spent one summer while working his way through college sailing on the Edmond Fitzgerald. He also drove his father’s cabs. Rich was a math teacher at Anthony Wayne before creating and running computer learning labs at various buildings in Toledo Public Schools. Additionally, he taught math, served as an Intern Consultant, and ended his 32 year career helping teachers who were struggling in the classroom. Rich and his loving wife, Cathey were married, June 19, 1970. He was the proud father of Joshua (Nicole) and Zachary (Emily). who brought him incredible joy and love. He referred to them as his greatest accomplishment. God blessed him with a grandson, Quinn in 2008. Being “Boppy” was a role he cherished. Richard shared his father’s love of boating and fishing. He was active in the Ottawa River Yacht Club, where he served as the 2001 Commodore and was the recipient of their Life Time Achievement Award this year. He also was active in the boating organizations AYC and ILYA. Rich was presented with AYC’s Outstanding Sportsman Award in 2007 and I-LYA’s Man Of The Year Award in 2010. He earned The Commodore’s Trophy in 2008 during I-LYA’s Bayweek Regatta. The life long friendships developed along the way through these three groups mattered much more to him the than honors bestowed upon him. Rich and Cathey shared a passion for biking; riding their Harley throughout the country. He won the first place trophy for Glass City Hogs 2006 Mileage Contest. They meandered through 45 of the 50 states. Trips to Maine, Vail, The Grand Canyon, Blue Tooth Highway, Nachez Trace, Blue Ridge Hwy, and Route 66 were among their favorite rides. Rich’s mother raised him to be a man of faith. He was the lay leader at Grace UM Church for decades. He was currently a member of St. Paul UM Church in Millbury. He frequently filled the pulpit when needed. He also conducted the memorial services for ORYC. In addition to his wife, sons, daughter-in-laws both of whom he loved as his own children, and grandson, Rich is survived by sister, Diane Piotrowski (John); sister-in-law, Marcia Scarberry who he loved like a sister; brothers, David and Daniel (Fiona), as well as many cherished aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, and nephews. The family would like to give heartfelt thanks to Dr. Timothy Kasunic and every single person connected to the Toledo Clinic Cancer Center. When Cleveland sent us home to die, you gave us the courage, support, and extra time to live life to it’s fullest. You were everything and more than we could have asked for. Friends will be received in the Witzler-Shank Funeral Home 701 N. Main St. Walbridge from 3-8 Friday where The ORYC will conduct services at 7:00 P.M. Rich’s memorial service will be Saturday 11:00A.M. in the funeral home. Those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider The Patient Assistance Cancer Fund at Toledo Clinic, Hospice at NW Ohio, St. Paul UM Church in Millbury.