Rich, Robert E. 1936-2024 St. Joseph, Mo.

By NewsPress Now

Robert Earl Rich, 88, of St. Joseph, passed away Wednesday, Oct. 23, 2024, at his home with family by his side. He was born Oct. 11, 1936, in St. Joseph, son of the late Hazel and Harry Rich. He graduated from Lafayette High School, class of 1954. He served in the United States Navy, serving 20 years, earning the rank of Senior Chief Petty Officer. After serving he held various positions at Carnation Pet Foods for 15 years. He worked at Electric Service Company as a salesman then store manager.

Robert had a kind and caring personality and loved to talk and play Cribbage. He was an avid outdoorsman and gardener. He excelled at carpentry and wood working. Robert and his late wife of over 66 years, loved and helped over 86 foster children when asked to care for emergency at risk children. Robert loved Jesus, and as a member of Abundant Faith Church of God, he helped many shut-in members.

Robert was preceded in death by his parents, wife, Thelma Marie Rich; daughter, Tama Rich; and brothers, Willis Rich and Leroi Rich.

Survivors include: daughter, Jonna (Richard) Sample, of St. Joseph; son, Mark Rich (Durice Ladd), of Oregon, Missouri; and several grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great grandchildren.

The family will receive friends from 6 to 8 p.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 29, 2024, at Rupp Funeral Home. Funeral services will be 10 a.m. Wednesday, Oct. 30, 2024, at Rupp Funeral Home. Interment will follow at Leavenworth National Cemetery.

Memorials are requested to the Abundant Faith Church of God.

Online condolences, obituary and public live stream at www.ruppfuneral.com As published in the St. Joseph News-Press.