Fulton County Ohio Media

The Swanton Lions Club lost one of its most cherished members the day after Christmas with the passing of Dick Notestine.  No amount of words can define the profound impact on the lives of people who knew Dick or even had a brief encounter or experience with him.  He had the rare God-given gift of making people feel welcome and comfortable and accepted only moments after the first “hello” and the smile to go along with it.  When you walked away from Dick after your first contact with him you felt you had just made a new friend. 

Dick joined the Swanton Lions in 2016 and immediately began to make a difference with his fresh ideas and leadership of several fund-raising committees.  When he was made aware of people in need, he would not only bring it to the attention of the Club but also suggest ways the Club could help.  Rare was the Lions Club program or event that did not include Dick.  He worked diligently through the Lions to serve the Swanton Community and, like most in the organization, never sought a “thank you“ or a pat on the back.  It was never his style. 

Dick was laid to rest today surrounded by family, friends and many members of the Swanton Lions Club.  These were the people who loved him and had their lives enriched and changed forever for having known him.  He leaves a hole in the heart of the Swanton Lions that can never be replaced but he will always be remembered.  

Obituary: Richard A. “Dick” Notestine, age 88, a cherished father, grandfather, and dedicated public servant, passed away peacefully at his home in Swanton, Thursday evening, December 26, 2024, surrounded by his loving family. Born on August 8, 1936, in Lindsey, Ohio to Warden and Rachel (Travis) Notestine, Dick led a life marked by commitment to family, dedication to his career, and service to his country.

A graduate of Fremont Ross High School, Dick’s career was distinguished by his military service in the United States Navy from November 16, 1964 to September 19, 1969, where he held the rank of Air Traffic Controller 1st Class Petty Officer and was awarded the National Defense Service Medal. He devoted 35 years of his professional life to the Federal Aviation Administration, where he served as an Air Traffic Controller, demonstrating a remarkable commitment to ensuring the safety of countless flights. 

Dick loved spending time with family and had several hobbies throughout his life, including traveling across the world with his wife BettyLee. While living in Florida and Tennessee, Dick was often found in his woodworking shop or fishing. His grandkids fondly recall going fishing, tubing, and skiing with him as well as going on day trips to museums and other local attractions. 

Dick was known for his vibrant personality and his ability to tell a good story, captivating those around him with tales of his experiences. His sense of humor and engaging nature left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him.

Dick was a proud member and past-president of the Swanton Lions Club, where he contributed to his community and formed lasting friendships. His impact on those around him was significant, as he devoted time to helping others and building a sense of camaraderie in his neighborhood.

He is survived by his beloved daughter, Norene Smith; his son, Richard (Lauren) Notestine; son-in-law Glen Dominique Jr.; stepson, Charles (Libbie) Jester; along with his grandsons, Bryan Heenan, Alec Heenan, Nicholas Dominique; step-grandchildren Jacob Jester and Shannon Jester.

Dick was preceded in death by his beloved wife, BettyLee, his daughter, Tonya Dominique, and his grandson, Brock Joseph Heenan. His memory will forever live on in the hearts of his family and friends, who will remember him with great fondness and respect. Richard A. Notestine’s legacy of family, love, service, and storytelling will be deeply missed but never forgotten.

A special heartfelt thank you to Kind Hearts Hospice for the comfort and care provided to Dick and family during his final weeks here on earth.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Swanton Lions Club, 204 Chestnut St., Swanton, OH 43558.

Photo: Dick accepting a Proclamation from the Village of Swanton Mayor Ann Roth for the Club’s 10-year anniversary with Lloyd Cass and Tom Snyder