James "Jim" Rich

James "Jim" Rich

March 11, 2026

Wichita, Kansas - James "Jim" Rich, 73, retired Trade Control Specialist at Boeing Military Aircraft for 32 years, died Wednesday, March 11, 2026.

Jim's life is distinguished by his hard work, dedication, compassion and high standard of excellence. These traits defined his roles as a father, husband, high-level Boeing employee and as a general person. Jim started working at an early age, helping his single mother afford rent in his early teens. He worked full time from 14 to 65, starting at Larcher's Grocery and moving on to the Coleman company and eventually Boeing. His career at Boeing is marked with numerous accomplishments, including dozens of awards and accolades for his roles as a trusted import/export and trade compliance specialist for Boeing Military Aircraft. He started at Boeing in 1980 as a traffic dispatcher and coordinator, rising through the ranks to become a highly trusted liaison to the U.S. government with top-secret security clearance.

Above all else, Jimmy really knew how to live. After retiring from Boeing in 2012, he frequently travelled, attended outings with friends and family and maintained a high level of physical fitness, actively cycling and golfing throughout his 7th decade of life. He also loved helping out at Wichita city golf courses several times per week. He prided himself in his meticulous lawn care and enjoyed outdoor leisure activities such as fishing and hiking. Jim had a natural knack for music, playing guitar, singing and learning songs by ear throughout his life. He and his son Zach bonded heavily over music and sports, often watching concerts and basketball games well into the early hours of the morning.

Jim was an amazing husband and father, dropping everything from his busy schedule to support his son in his musical journey. He was extremely dependable as a dad and poured his life and soul into his family.

Jim is preceded in death by his parents, James Anthony and Gladys Anna "Bunt" Rich. He is survived by his wife, Theresa L. Rich of Wichita, KS; son, Zach Rich of Denver, CO; sister, Kim (James) Barton; nephews, Todd Barton, Dustin Barton; nieces, Christine Barton, Shannon Barton Hale, and Dana Barton Butcher.

Visitation will be 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm, Tuesday, March 17, 2026, and Funeral Service will be at 2:00 pm, Wednesday, March 18, 2026, both at Downing & Lahey West Mortuary.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established with: Glioblastoma Foundation, 2451 Croasdaile Farm Pkwy., Suite 109, Durham, NC 27705.

Services in care of Downing & Lahey Mortuary - West Chapel. Share tributes online at: www.dlwichita.com