Obituary
Unfortunately, we have decided to postpone the Celebration of Life for Homer Rich Jr. and William Rich, Sr due to this virus situation.
Hobart, IN on March 20th
Shipshewana, IN on March 22nd
We will reschedule at a later date.
WILLIAM (BILL) CARTER RICH, SR., age 67, passed away February 22, 2020, at Cornerstone Hospice near his home in The Villages, FL, following a brief but courageous fight with multiple myeloma. His beloved wife of 47 years, Valerie Berry Rich, and other family members were at his side.
Other survivors include a son, William (Tonya) Rich, Jr., of Shipshewana, IN and a daughter, Jessica Rich (Dave) Rivas, of Valparaiso, IN. Bill was a loving grandfather to Abigail Gunning; Haley (Daniel) Thalmann; Jared Gunning; Zoey Rivas; and Kelsey and Morgan Rich; all of whom adored him. He was preceded in death by his father, Homer “Cy” Rich on February 4, 2020; his mother, Shirley Rich of The Villages, FL, survives. In-laws, other relatives, and many friends from everywhere he ever resided mourn his passing also.
Bill was a 1970 graduate of Hobart High School in Hobart, IN, and earned a bachelor’s degree from the University of Dubuque as well as a master’s degree from Indiana University. He touched many lives as a gifted educator of 40 years in Hobart and Shipshewana; he also served as President of the Westview Teachers’ Association prior to retirement. Additionally, Bill was a dedicated coach of football, swimming, wrestling and golf. A life highlight was coaching his son to a state championship in football. Bill “The Toe” Rich excelled in football as a kicker in high school and college. As a man of faith, he was a winner both on and off the field.
An Eagle Scout, Bill carried a spirit of outdoor adventure throughout his life—vacations, ziplining, boating, fishing, lifeguarding instruction, and much more. Valerie gratefully acknowledges her husband’s enthusiastic support of their shared dreams, including travel, business ownership, horses, and most recently, a home in The Villages, FL. Other passions included Notre Dame football, the Chicago Cubs and Blackhawks, and Ford vehicles. Bill’s creativity, precision, and ability to excel at anything he attempted were admired by many—especially the landscaped water features he created. Family members will warmly remember Bill as a generous host of Thanksgiving feasts, fish fries, and his signature eggs-in-a-basket.
A joint, father-son celebration of life for William and Homer Rich will be held Saturday, March 7 at 11:00 am at the Everglades Recreation Center. Two additional joint Celebrations of Life will take place Friday, March 20th from 5-8 PM at Hobart Community Center, 111 East Old Ridge Road, Hobart, IN 46342 and Sunday, March 22 in the back of the builiding at the Farmstead Inn and Conference Center, 370 South Van Buren Street Shipshewana, IN 46565. Final arrangements have been entrusted to Baldwin Brothers Funeral and Cremation.
Visitation
The Villages, Florida
So sad to hear of Bill's passing. My son, Chris, was one of his wrestlers at Westview. He always will be remembered for his kind words & encouragement. Prayers for you & your family.
My heart goes out to you during this most difficult time in your lives. Bill was such a wonderful man, husband and father. May you find peace and comfort in the love of family and friends and knowing that he is resting in the arms of Jesus our Lord and Savior. My love and heartfelt sympathy to you all.