Richard Welsby Poling, 56, went to be with the Lord on December 29, 2021. Rich was born on May 18, 1965 in Cleveland, Ohio. Rich is survived by his mother, Carolyn Welsby Bowen (stepfather James); father, Richard G. Poling; his beloved children Nicholas, Ryan, and Allison; sister, Lisa Poling Nichols; brother, Kurt Poling (Melanie), and nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his partner, Vicky Cameron.After graduating from Mentor High School and Willoughby Tech Center, Rich worked in the automotive industry. Rich’s love for cars and driving started as a young boy, constantly speeding around in his Hot Wheels car and repeatedly wearing out the tires. Rich was extremely knowledgeable about auto and diesel mechanics and could fix just about anything. Rich also took great joy in serving neighbors and others. Rich never met a stranger and talked with everyone who crossed his path and therefore had many friends.  He had a great sense of humor and loved to be the family clown. Rich was also an animal lover and rescued many animals through the years. Rich was a loving son, father, brother, uncle and friend to all and will be deeply missed. A memorial service is being planned for Spring 2022.In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Feeding Ministry at St. James Episcopal Church in Painesville, Ohio. Online obituary and condolences may be viewed at www.behmfuneral.com