Richard V. Monasterio Iii

Husband, father, and artist Richard V. Monasterio III passed away on November 14, 2021, at age 78. Richard grew up in Canton, Ohio with his sister Christine, who regularly challenged him to every imaginable contest, eager to bond with her older brother. Richard attended college at the Akron Art Institute, part of its last class of students before the school became the Akron Art Museum in 1965. He finished his education at Kent State University, where he further developed his talent and passion for photography. A few years later, Richard opened his photography business Custom Color Lab in downtown Akron. It was there that Richard met Sarah Reller, who would go on to become not only his business partner, but his wife. They married in 1985 and have run their photography and framing business together ever since. In the 1990s, Richard was the president of the Photo Marketing Association’s Great Lakes region, as well as part of the Akron Optimist Club. And for over 30 years, Richard has been a member of the Yogoda Satsanga Society of India—a nonsectarian spiritual nonprofit founded by Richard’s personal hero, Paramahansa Yogananda. His enthusiastic personality, his friendly charm, and his interest in everyone’s well-being made him a beloved friend to many in the photography industry and beyond.

Richard is survived by his wife Sarah, his son Michael and daughter-in-law Kelley, his daughter Katherine and son-in-law Ben, his son Matthew and daughter-in-law Krissy, his grandchildren Morgan and Avery, and countless extended family and friends who will always cherish the memories they made together. He was preceded in death by his sister Christine Kruman, who passed away on November 2.

Mass of the Christian Burial for Richard will be held on Monday, November 22 at 11:00 AM at St. Hilary Parish in Fairlawn, where Richard was a parishioner. Friends may call from 10:30 AM until the time of service at the church. Masks will be required. No gifts or flowers are necessary.

Services in care of The Billow Funeral Homes and Crematory Fairlawn Chapel 85 N. Miller Road  Akron, OH  44333.