Richard "Rip" Stuetzel

Stuetzel, Richard "Rip," passed away suddenly on October 3, 2010. Rip was born on May 18, 1931, in Los Angeles, CA to Richard and Gertrude Stuetzel. He was raised in Beverly Hills, CA, where he attended Beverly Hills High School. After high school, Rip attended Pierce College where he played an active role in the Greek community. In 1953, Rip enlisted in the United States Marine Corps obtaining the position of Demolition Expert and Training Sergeant. During his time in the service, he was stationed in various places such as California, Virginia, and Japan. Upon leaving the Marine Corps, Rip resumed his college studies at CSU Fresno and graduated in 1957 with a degree in Animal Husbandry. His love for animals only intensified with time, eventually leading to raising puppies for the seeing eye dog program. After college, Rip met Norma Jean Johnson through a mutual friend, and they soon after began their lives together. Rip and Norma started their new life in Glendale, CA, where they raised their 4 sons - Richard, David, John, and Carl. In 1971, they packed up and moved their family to Villa Park, CA. Rip worked for Akron for 25 years, taking on various tasks. In 1986, he took a warehouse position with the City of Fullerton and retired from the city in 1998 as a Senior Buyer. Rip had an undying love for the outdoors and an extreme sense of adventure. He enjoyed hiking, and tackled the great Mt. Whitney a grand total of three times. He took part in running marathons and participated in an innumerable amount of organized bicycle rides. In 2000, in honor of his seventieth birthday, Rip completed the Odyssey 2000 bike ride which covered over 20,000 miles and 40 countries in a one year period. Through this excursion, Rip got the opportunity to see so many different aspects of the world, and experience so many different cultures. In recognition of Rip's philanthropic endeavors, Rip was given the honor of carrying the Olympic Torch in 2002. His latest adventure was to perfect his golf game and be an active member of his community and growing family. Rip was a selfless man, developing a heart for every individual he came into contact with. He was a strong supporter of many charitable organizations, raising thousands of dollars with Team in Training for the Leukemia Lymphoma Society, Guide Dogs of the Desert, Arthritis Foundation and various other organizations. Richard Stuetzel was the definition of inspirational. He had passion for every journey he embarked upon, and brought life to every situation he encountered. He will be missed by councilmen and cashiers alike, never having met a stranger. Rip is predeceased by his brother, Humphrey Stuetzel and is survived by his wife of 52 years, Norma; his sons, Richard (Michele), David (Cindy), John (Sheryl), Carl, and 11 grandchildren. A Memorial Mass will be held at St. Norbert Church in Orange, CA, on October 13th at 10:00 AM. In lieu of flowers, the family requests making a donation to your favorite charity in memory of Rip.