Richard E. Karson

ALLEGANY — Richard E. Karson, 86, of Allegany, passed away peacefully Wednesday (Oct. 22, 2025) in the loving presence of his family.

Born April 3, 1939, in Barberton, Ohio, he was the son of Paul and Elizabeth M. Vislavsky Karson Sr. In 1988, in Barberton, he married Virginia Weaver, who survives.

Richard was in the first graduating class from Hoban High School in Akron, Ohio, in the year 1957, and soon after enlisted in the U.S. Navy. He served from 1958 until 1962 and was aboard the USS Enterprise during the Bay of Pigs invasion.

He began working in the manufacturing industry while residing in Ohio. After leaving Cleveland Pneumatic, he transferred to Dresser Rand in Olean in 1990 where he worked until his retirement.

Richard and his wife Virginia loved living close to nature. He was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed hunting and fishing.

He is survived by his wife, Virginia; his five children, Rick (Beth) Karson of Ravenna, Ohio, Mike (Pam) Karson of Akron, Ohio, Krisie (Andy) Vance of Barberton, Ohio, Kim (Dana) Cole of Akron and Robert Karson of Buffalo; many grandchildren and great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by a son, Kevin; a brother, Paul Jr.; and a sister, Sue.

No services will be held locally.  Richard’s family will hold a celebration of his life in Ohio at a future date.

Memorials may be made to the Allegany Rescue and EMS, P.O. Box 27, Allegany, NY 14706.

Arrangements are with the Casey, Halwig & Hartle Funeral Home, Olean.