Richard E. "Dick" Moon, Sr.

MOON, Richard E. “Dick,” Sr., 89, of Springfield, passed away December 11, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. He was born in Springfield, Ohio, on May 20, 1936, the son of Leroy F. and Catherine (Phares) Moon.

Dick was a devoted family man, dedicating his life to Charlotte, his late wife and the love of his life. He took immense joy and pride in his children, whose happiness and success were always at the center of his world. Known affectionately as “Pop” to his grandkids, he was a constant source of love and encouragement—whether cheering at games or pushing the grandkids on the backyard swing he built. All the way up until his final days, he had a playful sense of humor that kept everyone laughing.

A lifelong football fan, Dick was known as one of the toughest players at Catholic Central High School, coached at St. Mary’s for several years, and faithfully rooted for the Bengals and Notre Dame. He was also an avid golfer, first as a caddy at Springfield Country Club, later winning tournaments, scoring a hole-in-one at Reid Golf Course, and still outscoring his sons and grandsons well into his 80s.

Dick’s exceptional work ethic defined both his personal life and 42-year career at International Harvester (Navistar). His work didn’t stop there—you could often find him refinishing antiques in his garage or meticulously tending to his yard and tomato garden. It was his never-give-up mentality that helped him beat cancer 20 years ago. Dick loved the simple things in life like sitting around the table talking with friends and family over a cup of coffee.

Dick was a member of St. Raphael Catholic Church, Knights of Columbus #624, and UAW Local 402. A devout Catholic, he enjoyed his weekly ritual of attending 4:30 Mass with his lifelong friends and sharing dinner after. Above all, Dick will be remembered as a devoted husband, loving father and “Pop,” and a man whose faith, humor, and steadfast love touched everyone who knew him.

Survivors include his five children, Richard E. (Laura) Moon, Jr., Michael Moon (Jennifer Kleekamp), Teresa (Ron) Carroll, Nancy Lacey and Julie Scott (Brett Halsey); twelve grandchildren; fifteen great-grandchildren; one sister, Kay Moore; one sister-in-law, Janice Hooten; and several beloved nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his wife of 63 years, Charlotte Moon, three brothers, and two sisters. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:00 am at St. Raphael Catholic Church on Thursday, December 18. Visitation will begin at 9:00 am in the church. Inurnment will follow in Calvary Cemetery