WARREN – Richard A. Powell, 67, a lifelong resident of Warren, died unexpectedly on June 4.

Rick was born April 2, 1957, a son of the late Robert and Thelma Powell. He graduated in 1975 from Warren G. Harding High School and was the second-generation owner of Audiax Communications, founded by his parents in 1955 and focused on audio, security video and two-way radio equipment in commercial settings. A spin-off corporation, Lari-Jo Inc., was created in 1994 to design and build visual security products for hearing-impaired people. His creations included a doorbell strobe light, telephone ringer strobe light, and a tele-lert 911 emergency locator system. Lari-Jo then branched into the entertainment industry, with products now in use on four of the world's seven continents.

Rick also was well known as a sound mixer for musicians. The Works, The Look, The Great Pretenders, and the Reynolds Brothers were some of the local bands for whom he worked. He was honored to mix for many national acts that performed here.

He loved what he did for a living, and some clientele became lifelong friends. He also enjoyed spending time with family, spoiling his grand dogs, and gambling at casinos.

He is survived by his companion of 37 years, Lorri Shaulis, and their children Kayla Powell and Matthew Powell; a daughter, Amanda Herbert; one granddaughter; a brother, Edward (Autumn ) Powell; a sister, Laura (Joseph) Custodio; a sister-in-law, Debora (Mark) Flora; one niece; and three nephews.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a sister, Roberta (Bobbi Jo) Powell.

Visitation will be from 3 to 5 p.m. Sunday at Peter Rossi & Son Memorial Chapel, 1884 North Road N.E.

The family requests memorial contributions be made to the American Heart Association, PO Box 840692, Dallas, TX 75284-0692.