Obituary: Richard G. Laatsch

Richard G. Laatsch, age 95, passed away peacefully the early morning of Oct. 18, 2026, at the Knolls of Oxford. 

Richard was born on July 14, 1931, in Fairmont, Minnesota, to the late Otto H. and Frances (Shepardson) Laatsch. He grew up in Webster Groves, a suburb of St. Louis, Missouri. 

Richard dedicated his life to education as a professor of mathematics at Miami University, where he inspired countless students during his remarkable 38-year teaching career, before retiring in 2000. 

He was an active member of the Oxford United Methodist Church and found joy in activities that stimulated his mind, such as solving puzzles and Sudoku. He had an extensive collection of MAD Magazines, Pogo and Calvin and Hobbes comic books, Tom Lehrer records and enjoyed a good pun. He enjoyed his weekly bike rides with friends around town, a testament to his love for life and companionship.

Richard is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 60 years, Alice Laatsch; his children David (Kit Frazier) Laatsch, Phyllis (Alexis Wilke) Laatsch, Dee (Jason) Fisher and Chen Wang; his grandchildren Calvin, Tristan, Isabelle, Trevor, Zachary, Garrett; and his brother Robert (Marilyn) Laatsch. Arrangements are in the care of Paul R. Young Funeral Home in Oxford, Ohio. Services will be announced at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the charity of your choice. Online condolences may be shared with the family at www.paulyoungfuneralhome.com.

This obituary was originally published by Paul R. Young Funeral Home.