Richard “Dick” Blaine Ganster, 77, of Leavittsburg, Ohio passed away on Tuesday Dec. 23, 2025 and has made his way to The Greater Place where the grass is greener than Augusta National and the trees are filled with 30-point bucks. He will be remembered for his kindness, mentorship, and as a friend to all.

Dick was born on Feb. 6, 1948 in Meadville, Pennsylvania to Vivian “Blaine” Ganster and Frances (Davidson) Ganster. He received his bachelor’s and master’s degree from Slippery Rock University in Special Education. He began his teaching career at LaBrae High School teaching special education and then continued his last 28 years within Lakeview School District where he led the High School Multiple Disabilities program and then finished teaching middle school Math and Science. Dick also served at the high school boy’s and girl’s golf coach.

Dick was a lover of all things outdoors. His hobbies included golf, fishing, hunting and watching airplanes in the sky. In 1995, he scored the Texas “Buck of the Year” and was on the cover of Buckmaster magazine. Out of all his awards and accomplishments, he was most proud of his family and grandchildren.

He is survived by his loving wife of 53 years, Patricia Blake Ganster of Leavittsburg, OH; daughter Brooke Ganster of Fort Mill, SC; daughter Teale Ganster Sandoval and son-in-law Josh Sandoval of Fort Mill, SC; grandchildren Sullivan Scott, Violet Bieber, and Greenly Sandoval.

Cremation has taken place. A private celebration of life will be held in the spring in his special meadow up in the Allegheny Mountains.The family has requested that all donations please be made to the LaBrae Athletic Department 1001 North Leavitt Rd. Leavittsburg, OH 44430.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the James Funeral Home, 8 East Broad Street, Newton Falls, OH 44444 (330) 872-5440. Family and friends may view his obituary online or to send condolences, please visit us at www.jamesfuneralhomein.com.