James “Jim” Rich, 73, of Wichita, Kansas, passed away on March 11, 2026. A retired Trade Control Specialist at Boeing Military Aircraft, Jim dedicated 32 years to his career, beginning in 1980 as a traffic dispatcher and coordinator before advancing to a highly trusted import/export and trade compliance specialist with top-secret security clearance. His professional life was marked by numerous awards and a reputation for hard work, dedication, and uncompromising excellence.
From an early age, Jim worked to help support his single mother, taking on full-time employment at 14 and continuing without interruption until age 65. After retiring from Boeing in 2012, he embraced life with energy and enthusiasm. He traveled often, remained physically active through cycling and golf, and volunteered regularly at Wichita city golf courses. He took great pride in his lawn care and found joy in fishing, hiking, and playing guitar, singing, and learning songs by ear.
Above all, Jim was a devoted husband and father. He shared a deep bond with his son Zach through music and sports, staying up late to attend concerts and basketball games. He consistently set aside his own busy schedule to support Zach’s musical pursuits, demonstrating unwavering dependability and pouring his heart into his family.
Jim was preceded in death by his parents, James Anthony and Gladys Anna “Bunt” Rich. He is survived by his wife, Theresa L. Rich of Wichita; son, Zach Rich of Denver, Colorado; sister, Kim (James) Barton; nephews, Todd and Dustin Barton; and nieces, Christine Barton, Shannon Barton Hale, and Dana Barton Butcher.
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