Richard Trafford "Traff" Darst, 89, a lifelong Akron resident, passed away Oct 9, 2026. He leaves behind his wife of 60 years, Nancy; his sons, Michael (Lori) of NY and Christopher (Katrina) of CA; his four cherished grandchildren, who lovingly called him "Pop"; and a wonderful circle of friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Byran and Helen, and his younger brother, James.

A graduate of Miami University ('59), he was a member of the Delta Upsilon fraternity and ran with the cross-country team when they won the Mid-American Conference championship. He served his country in the U.S. Army Reserves and built a business career with Ohio Bell, AT&T, and Sanford Rose Associates.

A few of his favorite contributions to his community were serving on the Football Hall of Fame Board of Directors, serving as President of the Northwest Summit Rotary Club, and volunteering at the Medina Hospital. He was a long-time member of Fairlawn Country Club where he played golf, tennis and could be coerced into playing bridge if it included a cocktail and dinner. He was an avid Ohio State football fan and never stopped hoping he would live long enough to see the Browns win a Super Bowl. Yet, of all the venues, his favorite place in the world was on a bleacher watching his sons play sports from t-ball to competing in high school state championships in track and soccer. He was an extremely proud father of their accomplishments both on and off the field.

Among his favorite travel memories were three African safaris, two European bike trips, skiing in the Alps, zip-lining in Costa Rica with his grandchildren, and countless other memorable journeys with family and close friends.

Above all, he valued lifelong friendships, staying close to his grade school buddies through a yearly Akron reunion that spanned more than sixty years. Those who knew him well will remember his wonderful sense of humor, his infectious laugh, and his love of singing-even though he admitted he never learned to read music during his 10 years as a choirboy.

Please join us for Traff's Celebration of Life on Friday, October 23, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Fairlawn Country Club. Donations may be made to the Humane Society of Summit County or to a charity of choice.