Sergeant Richard Paul Mason, 75, of Newark, passed away at his home, surrounded by the love of his family, on Tuesday, April 28, 2026. Rich was born in Newark, Ohio on March 4, 1951, to the late William Randolph and Patricia Eleanor (Hopkins) Mason Sr.

A 1969 graduate of Newark High School, Rich enlisted and served for eight years in the United States Marine Corps, which included combat during the Vietnam War. Following, he returned to Newark and joined the City of Newark Police Department, retiring as Detective Sergeant. He was a member of the Licking County Marine Corps League, Veteran of Foreign Wars, American Legion, and Fraternal Order of Police.

He will be dearly missed by his children, Keely (Rob) Calvert and Michael Mason; 6 grandchildren, Braden, Aiden, Allison, Owen, Keaton, and Kamden; brothers, John R. (Renee) Mason and Mark D. Mason; sisters-in-law, Vicki Mason and Romona L. Mason; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

In addition to his parents, Rich was preceded in death by his siblings, William R. Mason Jr., James D. Mason, and Joyce (William) Mason-Trace; and his best friend, John Gorsuch.

Calling hours will be held at Reed-Egan Funeral Home, 141 Green Wave Drive, Newark, 11-1 P.M., Tuesday, May 5, 2026, with a dedication led by Scott Snow beginning at 1 P.M. Burial will follow in Newark Memorial Gardens with honor guard provided by the City of Newark Police Department and the Licking County Marine Corps League.

In lieu of flowers, memorials in Rich’s name can be made to the Wounded Warrior Project or the Newark Catholic High School Foundation.

To share your memory of Rich or leave a condolence for the family, please visit www.reedegan.com.