Ушел из жизни Джеймс Рич, известный автомеханик и скаут-лидер, работавший в Volkswagen 35 лет

James Howard Rich, Jr., was born Nov. 23, 1941, in Stuttgart, Arkansas. He passed away Aug. 24, 2026, in San Antonio, Texas. He was the devoted son of Elizabeth and Jimmy Rich, who preceded him in passing, as did his sister and brother-in-law, Mary and Jim Wirski. Howard spent his formative years in Stuttgart, where he attended Holy Rosary School before graduating from Stuttgart High School. His pursuit of knowledge and adventure led him to the University of Oklahoma, where he furthered his education. With a spirit of service and dedication, Howard served in the National Guard from 1964 to 1970, embodying the values of duty and commitment. A man of many talents, Howard found his professional calling as an automotive mechanic, a career that he pursued with passion and skill. He worked at notable companies such as Fiat and Dodge, yet it was with Volkswagen in Houston, Texas, that he dedicated the last 35 years of his career. Howard’s adventurous spirit was evident from a young age. As Boy Scout in Stuttgart, he achieved the rank of Eagle Scout and became a member of the Order of the Arrow. His contributions as a counselor at Camp Quapaw and his participation in two National Jamborees spoke to his leadership and dedication to the values of scouting. His love for auto racing took him from the tracks of Riverside in California to the Stuttgart Grand Prix, where he competed with enthusiasm and skill. These experiences fueled his passion for automotive mechanics. Howard leaves behind his surviving family, his sister, Nancy Schafer Rich of Camden, Arkansas, and Alicia and Randy Goacher of San Antonio; his nieces, Laura (Mike) Clint and Amy Goacher of San Antonio; and his nephew, Rich Goacher (Laurie) of Green Cove Springs, Florida. In gratitude for the care and compassion shown to Howard, the family extends heartfelt thanks to Ulysses and Crystal Cisneros and Anchored by Grace for their unwavering support. The family will honor Howard’s wishes with a private ceremony.