Richard Eugene Berter Jr.

Richard Eugene Berter Jr., 77, of Cincinnati, OH, passed away on April 25, 2026. He was born on November 5, 1948, in Cincinnati to Richard Eugene Berter Sr. and Nancy (Slattery) Berter.

A talented sheet metal designer and instructor, Richard contributed his expertise to several roofing companies, including Rain-A-Way, Hader, and Durable Slate.  After retiring, he went back to work at Durable Slate in his 70’s, so he could help teach and mold the next generation.  His great sheet metal work can be seen all over Cincinnati and even in New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina.  His mastery of his craft was evident not only in his work but also in his willingness to share his knowledge with others, particularly the second-grade students at St. Bernard Elementary School, where he spent two years teaching them the joys of vegetable gardening.

Outside of his professional life, Richard was a member of several community organizations, including the Fraternal Order of the Eagles #1095, the Shortwave Radio Club, and the St. Bernard-Ludlow Grove Historical Society.  A talented photographer, he was the one to develop all negatives of the “Lost Neighborhood”…historic buildings that were demolished in St. Bernard.  When the historical society was being reorganized, Richard was one of the first St. Bernard residents to volunteer. He was the one we called and depended on for photography and any audio/visual issues. Also, known for his street photography, he found beauty in everyday moments.

Richard’s love for music was evident as he played both the classical and rhythm guitar, participating in numerous bands. He enjoyed challenges such as swinging from church steeples, as he installed and/or repaired the copper sheathing,  and participating in outdoor activities like fishing, camping, and hunting during his younger years. He also enjoyed collecting ham radios.

Richard is survived by his devoted wife, Cathy Berter, and his four children: Tina (Anthony) DiGiovanni, Karen (Shawn) Deaton, Josh (Leanne) Wilson, and Makayla (Andrew) Cullen. He leaves behind a cherished legacy of grandchildren: Amanda, Brittany, Nicholas, Tylor, Isaih, Austin, Jordan, Abigail, Gracelynn, Wyatt, Juliete, and Cecelia. He is also survived by his siblings: John (Susan) Berter, Michael (Lauren) Berter, Mary (Jerry) Taylor, Barbara (Paul) Billow; his sister-in-law, Beverly Roy; brother-in-law, Ken Keppel; special uncle Dave (Karen) Berter, many nieces, nephews, cousins, his best friend, Don Hunsicker, and his beloved dog, Bean.
Richard was preceded in death by his parents, Richard E. Berter, Sr. and Nancy (Slattery) Berter, grandchild, Shawn Deaton Jr., and sister, Suzanne Keppel.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, May 16^th, 2026 from 10:00-11:00am at St. Clement Church, 4536 Vine Street, Cincinnati, Ohio 45217. A Funeral Mass will follow at 11:00am.

Richard’s spirit will live on in the hearts of his family, friends, and community. He will be deeply missed, yet fondly remembered for his laughter, warmth, and love for those around him.