Richard J. Zarich

Richard J. Zarich, 84 of Wichita, KS passed away on March 17, 2024.He was born 1939 in Akron, OH to John & Ethel Zarich and was raised proudly as a Serbian-American and in the Eastern Orthodox Christian faith. Richard entered the United States Air Force in 1958, and was stationed at McConnell Air Force Base in Wichita, KS. This became home to Richard, where he met and married his wife Shirley of 62 years. Richard served for many years in the Air Force and Air National Guard in aircraft maintenance. He was proud to serve his country. In 1968-9 he spent a year in Korea maintaining planes flying the DMZ during the Viet Nam War. He later worked for the US Government in aircraft maintenance until his retirement.Richard was a strong family man. He focused on his sons, making sure both were capable of growing with love and self-discipline. The family has the greatest memories of annual family vacations, including trips back to his home in Ohio and Colorado. Richard loved Colorado, especially Buena Vista where he and Shirley had a second home for over 25 years. Sharing this with his family and close friends was important to him.Richard was also skilled in building and repair. No need to pay for repairs, Richard figured out how to work on just about anything. Always sharing his perspective with his sons. These skills included building a variety of wooden items from tables, cradles, rocking horses and more. All his grandchildren and so many lucky other children enjoyed his handmade teddy bear rocking chairs. Richard was also a member of St. Mary Orthodox Christian Church. He was a steadfast supporter of activities and needs in his Church for many years including Sunday School, participating on the Church Board, Fall Festivals, softball teams, maintenance and much more. Survived by his wife, Shirley Zarich; son, Michael (Paula) Zarich; son, Mark (Becky) Zarich; grandchildren, Rachel, Hannah (Aaron), Leah, Alexa (Johnny), Zachary (Sarah), Jordan (Emily) and Zachary (Sydney). Richard also had four great-grandchildren.Visitation will be Friday, March 22 from 4 PM - 6 PM at Downing & Lahey East Mortuary. Funeral Service will be Saturday, March 23 at 10:00 AM at St. Mary Orthodox Christian Church, 344 S. Martinson.Memorial has been established with St. Mary Orthodox Christian Church.