Dr. Rev. Richard C. Steinlechner

Dr. Rev. Richard C. Steinlechner, 79, of Hermitage, ascended to his heavenly home on Friday, April 24, 2026, in UPMC Horizon Hospital, Farrell.

Dr. Rev. “Pastor Dick” Steinlechner was born on February 12, 1947, in Mercer, PA, a son of the late Charles and Hazel (Tanner) Steinlechner. He was a 1965 graduate of Lakeview High School. Richard then served in the U.S. Army/Army Reserves.

A lifelong learner, Richard earned many degrees, including a B.S. in Developmental Psychology, a Master of Divinity Degree, a Doctorate of Ministry Degree, a Master of Fine Arts Degree in Creative Writing, and, finally, a Doctorate of Philosophy.

He was a self-employed businessman, owning many successful businesses throughout his career. However, the Lord had a different plan, and Richard was called to the ministry. He served as Senior Pastor at New Lebanon Community Church, Sandy Lake, PA, from 2003, retiring in 2016.

Richard held many titles to many people: Husband, Father, Grandfather, Great Grandfather, Employer, Pastor, Counselor, Friend and Mentor.

He is survived by his wife, the former Norma Jean King, whom he married on February 10, 1978; two daughters, Tami DeJulia, of Hermitage, PA and Denise Cook (Mathew) of Northfield, OH; six grandchildren, Sean (Holly), Christopher (Melissa), Michael (Emerald), Kurt (Brianna), Mackenzie, and Riley; and several great-grandchildren.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the numerous individuals who helped care for Richard in the past year. A special thanks to his primary caregiver, Leslie, and his Hospice Nurse, Tera.

In addition to his parents, Richard was preceded in death by a son-in-law, William “Bill” DeJulia; and two sisters, Vivian Hefferman and infant, Janet Steinlechner.

The family suggests memorial contributions be directed to the American Diabetes Assoc., at American Diabetes Association; the Alzheimer’s Assoc., at www.alz.org; or the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network, at www.pancan.org.

A celebration of Richard’s life will be held at 1 p.m. on Thursday, May 7, 2026, at the Hubbard Church of the Nazarene, with Rev. Virginia LaVan Gadsby, officiating.

Interment: Crestview Memorial Park, Grove City, PA.