Myrel James Rich

Myrel James Rich, 78, passed away Monday, December 23, 2013 at his residence in Ashland, KS. Born July 29, 1935, at Ashland, KS, in the home of his aunt, Mrs. O.H. Edwards, he was the son of James Lloyd Rich and Agidia Julia Wasinger.
He was raised on the Lloyd Rich farm 3 ½ miles east and 1 mile north of Protection and the Jay Rich farm, 2 ½ miles east of Protection. He attended school for grades 1-12 at Protection, graduating in 1953. He received his BME from Ottawa University in 1960 and his MME from the University of Arizona in 1973.
Myrel taught Music and English in public schools in Kansas and Arizona during his career. He taught in Coldwater, KS and Ashland, KS. He then taught Music and English in the Arizona School System until his retirement. He then purchased Uncle August and Aunt Katie Breit's home in Ashland. After two years of retirement, Myrel got restless and began teaching in Kansas. He later retired from the Kansas Teachers' Retirement System and returned to Ashland, where he was active in St. Joseph's Catholic Church.

Myrel has one son: Jeffrey Barnes Rich and wife Natalie. His pride and joy is grandson: Jaeden William Rich, 11, and granddaughter: Shelby Hicks. They live in Sacramento, CA. Other survivors include two brothers: Billy J. Rich and wife Peggy of Protection, KS and Danny C. Rich and wife Kay of Ashland, KS; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Graveside service is at 3:00 p.m., Saturday, December 28, 2013, at the Protection Cemetery in Protection, KS, with Father Ben Dande presiding.

Memorials may be sent to Jaeden Rich Education Fund in care of Hatfield-Prusa Funeral Home, P.O. Box 417, Coldwater, KS 67029.