In Memoriam: Richard E. Lightner, 67
Lightner was the executive vice president of Ohio Vehicle Leasing Association as well as the 2004 recipient of William H. Brown memorial award for outstanding service to the car rental industry.
Richard E. Lightner passed away July 7 at the age of 67 from sudden complications with heart disease and diabetes.
He has served the renting and leasing industry since 1976. He was the 2004 recipient of William H. Brown memorial award for outstanding service to the car rental industry.
He was preceded in death by his parents Ralph and Evelyn Lightner of Waynesburg, Pa., and his son Richard L. Lightner.
He is survived by his sister Linda Pitcock (Al), daughter and son-in-law Mary Lightner and Robert Rothwell, son Matthew R. Lightner (Denise) and his four granddaughters Heather, Holly, Jordan and Lindsey.
The memorial service, which is for family only, will take place at a later date.
Matthew R. Lightner will work with the OVLA Board of directors to make disruption of OVLA membership services as easy as possible.
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