Gordon B. Rich, 84, Sioux Falls, S.D., died on Tuesday, Feb. 24, 2004, at the VA Medical Center in Sioux Falls. He was the husband of the former Selma Sundem of Hills. Services were Friday, Feb. 27, at East Side Lutheran Church in Sioux Falls. Burial was at Hills of Rest Memorial Park, Sioux Falls.Gordon Rich was born to Clifford and Addie (Lowry) Rich on Oct. 2, 1919, in Newell, S.D. As a child, he moved with his family to Yankton, S.D. He graduated from Yankton High School and attended Yankton College prior to serving with the Civilian Conservation Corps at Wind Cave in the Black Hills. He served with the U.S. Navy during World War II. Following his honorable discharge, he and his brothers established the Rich Brothers Co. He married Selma Sundem on July 13, 1947, in Hills. The couple lived in Sioux Falls. Following his retirement in 1982, he worked part-time at Kohls Department Store for a short time.Mr. Rich was a member of East Side Lutheran Church; was past-Grand Counselor for United Commercial Travelers; a member of the C.C.C. Alumni group; a life-member and past-chaplain of John M. Bliss VFW Post 628; and a member of Sioux Falls American Legion Post #15.Survivors include his wife, Selma Rich, Sioux Falls; six children, Sharyl Rich, Kristine (Eric) Clausen, all of Overland Park, Kan., James Rich, Jerry Rich, Kevin (Laurie) Rich, all of Sioux Falls, and Steven (Deb) Rich, Rapid City, S.D.; 12 grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren. Mr. Rich was preceded in death by his parents, one son, Brian, three brothers and two sisters. George Boom Funeral Home, Sioux Falls, was in charge of arrangements.
