Richard Minerich
Richard Minerich
Richard Minerich
Richard Minerich
Richard Minerich
Richard Minerich

Obituary of Richard Joseph Minerich

Richard Joseph Minerich passed away October 30, 2021, in Olympia, Washington. Rich was born in Ronald, Washington, on March 15, 1938, to Matt and Anne Minerich. He was nicknamed Sonny- and it was a name many people, including his family, continued to call him throughout his life. In 1942, the family left Ronald for western Washington in search of better employment opportunities.  They settled in Renton and bought a house on Burnett Street across from the railroad tracks. That house remained the Minerich family home for over 50 years.

 

Rich began his education at Henry Ford Elementary School and graduated from Renton High School in 1956. After graduation, Rich worked at a local grocery store as a meat cutter. In 1958, he joined the United States Army. Much of his enlistment was spent at Fort Lewis and he also served in Korea. He was discharged in 1964. He then began work at Oberto Meat Company in Seattle. His positions included traveling salesman and managing the production facility. He also worked at Gai's Bakery and eventually retired from Boeing in 1997.

 

While working at Gai's, Rich met Dianne. They were married in Reno in June 1987 with both families in attendance.  Dianne had five children, so Rich had a ready-made family.  During this time, he owned several racehorses that ran at Longacres and other Northwest tracks. Friends and family had many a great time standing in the winner's circle with Rich. He was also a player/coach for a coed softball team in Renton for many years.

 

After retirement, Rich and Dianne bought a motor home and began their travels. They eventually would spend six months of every year at Golden Village Palms in Hemet, California. They made many friends from around the U.S. and Canada, and enjoyed golf, poker and cribbage tournaments and, of course, endless happy hours and parties. Rich loved all the activity and camaraderie. In 2004, Rich and Dianne moved to Laurel Oaks in Lacey, and then bought a new home in Ovation four years ago. As life slowed down, Rich enjoyed watching sports on TV, working Sudokus, and spending time with family.

 

Rich was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Maryanne Wilson; and stepdaughter, Michelle Cook. Rich had many beloved pets over the years. Molly and Alfie were the most recent fur babies and they provided him much joy and companionship.

 

Rich is survived by his loving wife, Dianne; stepsons, Tim (Jill) Cook, Matt Cook, and Russ (Mary) Cook; and stepdaughter, Kristin (Pat) Liles; grandchildren, Ryan Cook, Sarah Matias, Lindsey Liles, Lucas Liles, Michael Vasquez, Tyson Cook; and great granddaughter, Sienna Matias. Rich also leaves behind his sisters, Pat Anderson and Joni (Bob) Rodger; along with cousins, nephews and nieces.

 

Rich will be buried at Tahoma National Cemetery, 18600 SE 240th St., Kent, WA 98042, on Tuesday, November 23, 2021, at 10:30 a.m. A reception will immediately follow at Lake Wilderness Golf Course, 25400 Witte Road SE, Maple Valley, WA 98038. All are welcome to attend either or both gatherings. Proof of vaccination or a negative COVID test may be required at the reception. Please be prepared.

 

The family requests memorial gifts to Old Dog Haven at www.olddoghaven.org or to The Salvation Army.

 

Rich was a kind and easy-going man who loved his family and friends and was well loved in return. He  enjoyed his life. May he rest in peace.

 

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