Richard E. Ray Rich

Richard Rich ended his 66-year journey on Earth and returned to his LORD and Savior June 24, 2011 after battling cancer for two years. His final days were spent at home in the company of his loving family. He is survived by his second wife, Carolyn Rich of Tehachapi, CA; his sons, LCDR Patrick and Annette Rich of Moore, OK; Richard “Ryan” Rich of Stillwater, OK; his daughter, Leslie and Jacob Shepherd of Bakersfield, CA; and his grandchildren Ainsley and Maggie Rich, and Levi Shepherd. His living siblings included Bobbie Crouch of Pontotoc, MS; Margaret Klitz of Winthrop, AR; Robert Rich; Floyd Rich; and John Rich all of Horatio, AR. He is preceded in death by his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Robert E. Lee and Vertie Rich, his brother, Donald Rich, and his sister, Edith Rich. Richard was born in Horatio, AR the second son of “Bob” and Vertie Rich. He resided in Horatio until 1965 when he was drafted into the U.S. Army. He served two years as a U.S. Army medic in Germany, and concluded his service, honorably, as a Sergeant (E-5) before returning home in 1967. Upon returning from his service overseas, Richard moved to California to pursue a career in the oil industry. After concluding 42 years as a pioneer in the American oil industry, Richard retired in 2009 as the Superintendent of Operations at Downhole Stabilization, Inc. in Bakersfield, CA. His hobbies included hunting, fishing, trapping, cock-fighting, collecting “German” cutlery – because, we all know “the best steel comes from Germany”, gardening, and reading. His wisdom, sage advice, and colorful demeanor left a lasting impression on all who were privileged to make his acquaintance. At his request, SGT Rich will be laid to rest in the Bakersfield National Cemetery June 30, 2011. Visitation will be held Wednesday June 29th at Mish Funeral Home in Bakersfield, CA between 4:00-8:00 pm. Services will be held at Mish Funeral Home June 30th at 11:00 am. A graveside memorial will be held for family members immediately following the funeral service.

Arrangements under the direction of Mish Funeral Home, Bakersfield, CA.