RICHARD LAWRENCE OCHELTREE

Richard Lawrence Ocheltree Richard L. Ocheltree passed away peacefully September 2, 2011 after a very brief illness. He was 79. Rich was born in Springfield, Illinois on October 9, 1931, during the Cardinals/Athletics World Series, to Chalmer Myerly and Helen Margaret (Camm) Ocheltree. He and his older sister, Barbara, grew up together in various towns throughout Illinois. He sang in the choir of the Episcopal Church for several years and participated in Boy Scouts, obtaining rank of Order of the Arrow. Bright, hard-working and gregarious, Rich was named valedictorian of Springfield High School from which he graduated in 1949. He took part in a number of high school activities, especially enjoying his role as editor of his high school's yearbook. After high school, Rich was wooed by several colleges, ultimately selecting Harvard University, which offered him an academic scholarship. At Harvard he was President of the Student Flying Club, having obtained his pilot's license at age 17. Rich joined the U.S. Air Force upon graduating from Harvard in 1953 and was stationed at the Marana Air Base in Arizona. Upon completing military service, Rich returned to Harvard to earn a law degree. Despite his academic success, Rich remained surprisingly humble, reflective of his Midwestern roots. In 1958, Rich married Ann Washburn. Together they traveled westward, settling in Lucas Valley. Rich began his legal career at Low and Ball in San Francisco but was recruited by American Forest Products Corp., which became Bendix Forest Products Corp. He enjoyed his work and considered those he worked with honest and straight, confirming million dollar deals on a handshake. In his role as General Counsel, V.P. Administration, and Secretary, he made many life-long friends, reflecting on his career as the perfect job for him. Rich and Ann raised three daughters, Kirstin, Lorraine and Tracy, each of whom loved him dearly. He was generous, kind, conscientious and loving, and could always be counted on to "show up", ready to watch or participate in whatever activities were taking place. He appreciated the tight-knit community of Lucas Valley, where he took pleasure in coaching softball, trick-or-treating with his children and friends, Friday tennis, the "gourmet group", and poker nights. His unwavering support of those he cared about was admirable; a champion of the "underdog", he always lent a helping hand when needed. Adventurous, Rich took to the highway upon retirement to reconnect with friends. With Ann, he discovered exotic locales. Rich was hardworking, playful, articulate, well-read, and entertaining. He was known for his heavenly manhattans, attention to detail, and lively political debates. In addition to Ann, sister Barbara (Ralph), daughters Kirstin, Lori and Tracy, Rich leaves behind three valued sons-in law: Stephen, Ray, and Michael, who brought balance to his all-girl household; seven adored grandchildren: Kelly, Nicholas, MacKenzie, Richard "Shay", Cole, Haley and Kendall, whose athletic and musical pursuits he followed closely; and numerous extended relatives. Fun-loving and wise, Rich treasured his family and friends above all else. Rich knew he lived a full and rewarding life and considered himself lucky. He was a wonderful father, a good editor (sorry dad if we didn't get this quite right), and a loyal friend. A joyful gathering in Rich's honor will take place October 22 at 1 p.m., at the Theological Seminary in San Anselmo. For details, please contact ocheltreea@lucasvalley.net. In lieu of flowers, we suggest donations to the Salvation Army. The leader of the Ocheltree clan, Rich will be missed but not forgotten. He left with a smile and the hope that we will indeed, meet again.