Commissioners Posthumously Honor Late Commissioner Richard J. Regovich with the 3rd Key to the County
PAINESVILLE, Ohio, January 29, 2026 – At today’s Commissioners’ meeting, the Lake County Board of Commissioners posthumously presented the 3rd Key to Lake County to Late Commissioner Richard J. Regovich, recognizing his extraordinary service, leadership, and lasting contributions to Lake County. The Key was accepted on his behalf by his wife, Lynn Regovich.
The Key to Lake County represents the county’s highest and most prestigious honor. Established by the Lake County Board of Commissioners, the Key is awarded very selectively and only by unanimous consent, recognizing individuals or organizations whose accomplishments and contributions have made a profound and enduring impact on Lake County.
Commissioner Regovich dedicated more than a decade of his life to public service, guided by a deep love for Lake County and its residents. His leadership priorities included economic and workforce development, infrastructure improvements, and initiatives designed to strengthen quality of life across the county. His integrity, compassion, and tireless dedication left a legacy that will be felt for generations.
Commissioner Regovich began his public service as Ward 1 Councilman in the City of Willowick in 2014, later serving as Mayor beginning in 2016. He was sworn in as Lake County’s 81st Commissioner on November 29, 2022, and served as Commission President at the time of his passing.
Commissioner Regovich was instrumental in the creation of the Key to Lake County program, proposing the initiative alongside Commissioners John T. Plecnik and John R. Hamercheck. His belief in recognizing excellence and meaningful contributions to the community is reflected in the very program that now bears his honor.
“What I said before still stands. I am deeply grateful to the family for sharing Rich with us and for everything you’ve done. I know the sacrifice that comes with public service, and it is never carried by just one person. It is carried by the entire family. So, I want to thank all of you who are here today for supporting him, for sharing him with our community, and for allowing him to make the impact he made. Nobody who serves in public life does it alone. It is always a family effort. So again, thank you to the entire family,” said Commission President Morris W. Beverage III. “And to Momma (Ann) Regovich, I want you to know that I will do my best to carry on the ‘Fun Advisor’ on the Fifth-Floor tradition — the title Rich proudly displayed on his office door.”
“Richard Regovich made a profound and immeasurable impact on this community as our friend, colleague, Commissioner, and President. Though no words can fully capture his contributions, today we honor his legacy with gratitude and as inspiration for every public servant who follows. The strength of Lake County, the community others look to for guidance, did not happen by accident but through the prayers, dedication and hard work of a humble man who loved his city and served his county with integrity. It was an honor to serve alongside him and witness the difference he made. Though we lost him far too soon, his influence will endure through the family he raised, the city he cherished, and the county he uplifted. By awarding him the Key to Lake County, the first and only commissioner to receive this honor, we affirm that anyone who hopes to make a true difference should look at Rich’s example,” said Commissioner John T. Plecnik.
“The past few months have been exceptionally difficult as we have worked through the challenges before us. At last week’s NOACA meeting, several certificates of appreciation were presented, including one recognizing Rich. It was a profound honor to accept it on his behalf. Walking into a room of individuals I do not know well made the moment even more emotional, and it was challenging to maintain my composure,” said Commissioner Morgan R. McIntosh. Rich was an extraordinary person. I was proud to call him my friend, and I continue to look up to him. Sitting here today, striving to carry forward the work he cared about, underscores how significant this transition has been. I am proud to serve in this role, yet I remain deeply saddened by Rich’s absence.”
In addition to his professional achievements, Commissioner Regovich was widely admired for his love of family, sense of humor, and commitment to helping others. His passion for serving seniors and those in need was evident through his founding of the Willowick Hearts and Hammers program.
The Lake County Board of Commissioners extends its deepest gratitude to Lynn Regovich and the Regovich family for sharing Commissioner Regovich with the community and for accepting this honor on his behalf. The Board is proud to recognize Late Commissioner Richard J. Regovich as the third recipient of the Key to Lake County, honoring a legacy defined by service, integrity, and unwavering dedication to the people of Lake County.
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