Richard "Dick" W. Minnis

Richard “Dick” W. Minnis, 77, of Conneaut Lake passed away from a sudden and fatal neurological issue on Friday morning March 28, 2025, surrounded by loved ones at Meadville Medical Center.

He was born in Meadville on October 11, 1947, a son of Robert W. and Norma Jean (Shreck) Minnis. He was a 1965 graduate of Meadville High School and Edinboro University. He worked for Conrail and Norfolk Southern railroads as a conductor and an engineer for 30 years. Richard also worked for Crawford Central School District for 11 years as a truant officer and in the maintenance department. On July 4, 1968, he married his high school sweetheart, Joyce Yoest. She survives. Richard was her very best boyfriend and will always be her “Spirit in the Sky.

Richard was a life member of the Meadville Elks Lodge #219, a social member of VFW Post #2006, The Meadville Club and the Iroquois Club. His relationship with Stone United Methodist Church grew through his regular participation in online services.

A man of few words, he was fiercely loyal to his family and friends.

In addition to his beloved wife of 56 years, he is survived by a son; Richard Minnis Jr. (Michelle), of Woodlands, Texas; a daughter, Aubrey Minnis (Dominick DiRienzo), of Meadville, Pa.; two sisters, Anita Becker (Rick) and Cynthia Splitstone (Don) and five grandchildren, Alexander, Joshua and Grace Minnis and McKenna and Luca DiRienzo. His grandchildren were a constant source of pride. Among them are a professional weightlifter and U.S. Navy veteran; a U.S. Marine serving as a canine specialist; a self-made oil and gas industry professional who threw a wicked fastball in high school; a dedicated college graduate who also works with the Pittsburgh Penguins Foundation and is studying for a master’s degree; and a college sophomore who is a first responder. Poppa loved giving his family an opportunity to enjoy the water at Conneaut Lake, making sure all his grandchildren had access to a boat while growing up.

Important members of his family circle included his in-laws, Carolynne Harris (James); James Edwards (Bonnie); and James and Carolyn (Yoest) Turnbull. His social circle included his “railroaders” and social club members who would see him on his daily rounds.

He was preceded in death by his mother and father; three brothers, Thomas L. Minnis, James Minnis and Stephen Minnis; a sister, Bonnie (Minnis) Edwards; and an infant son, Robert James Minnis.

He was an avid Pittsburgh sports fan. It wasn’t summer until the porch was open, the Pirates were on the radio, a campfire was burning and a bourbon (sometimes several) was on ice. He watched the Steelers each Sunday and remained optimistic about their playoff chances after every game. He was fortunate to travel to many great domestic and international destinations with Joyce and cherished his time at the ocean and on Kiawah Island, S.C.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Meadville Elks Lodge 219, Scholarship Fund, 14420 Baldwin Street Ext., Meadville, Pa. 16335.

The family is grateful for the thoughtful and dedicated care provided by the staff at Meadville Medical Center’s Intensive Care Unit. Richard was a strong soul who overcame two bouts of cancer and myriad other health complications that he kept private. The family extends its appreciation to Dr. Dipesh Maan and Rev. Kendra Balliet for their wonderful care and kindness.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date. Inurnment will be in Greendale Cemetery, Meadville.

Arrangements have been entrusted to ROSE AND WAID FUNERAL HOME, 12422 CONNEAUT LAKE ROAD, CONNEAUT LAKE.

Memories and condolences may be shared at www.rosefh.com.