G. Richard Koelsch, 60, Warwick grad, active at HUMC, enjoyed business, visiting national parks

G. Richard “Rick” Koelsch, 60, went to be with the Lord after a brief illness on Sunday, Nov. 19, 2017, at Lancaster Regional Medical Center, with family by his side.

He was the loving husband of Deborah (Mohr) Koelsch, to whom he was married for 35 years. Rick was the son of Peggy (Houck) Koelsch, and the late George W. Koelsch Jr., who passed away in December 2016.

Rick was a devoted member of Hempfield United Methodist Church, where he served in leadership and sang with the Gospel Guys. He was dedicated to improving the community and recently planted a seed to create affordable housing for Lancaster County through HUMC in partnership with IMPACT! Missions.

Rick was a 1975 graduate of Warwick High School and 1980 graduate of Millersville University, where he obtained his bachelor’s degree as a member of the first graduating business class. He had a passion for business and entrepreneurship, which included finance, IT, telecom, networking, and fundraising.

Rick was a dedicated husband, father, and friend. In Rick’s own words, “It’s all about people and it’s all about relationships.” He enjoyed touring the country in his travel trailer, where he visited all 48 continental states, with a focus on national parks. His favorite was Teddy Roosevelt National Park in North Dakota. He loved puttering around in the yard, gardening, and cooking and entertaining.

In addition to his loving wife, he is survived by a daughter: Abigail (Koelsch) Thompson wife of Jeffery; one son: Christian Richard; three grandchildren: Jaycie and Ethan Koelsch, and Anna Thompson; three siblings: Dr. Patricia Stoudt, wife of Paul; Charles “Chuck” D. Koelsch, husband of Dr. Jane Marie Koelsch; and James B. Koelsch husband of Lisa; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Rick was preceded in death by two grandchildren.

Services were held Nov. 22 at Hempfield United Methodist Church, 3050 Marietta Ave., Lancaster. Interment will be held privately and at the convenience of the family.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in memory of Rick may be made to IMPACT! Missions, 118 W. Willow Road, Willow Street, PA 17584; or to Care Ministry, Hempfield United Methodist Church, 3050 Marietta Ave., Lancaster, PA 17601.

To send an online condolence, visit SnyderFuneralHome.com. Charles F. Snyder Funeral Home & Crematory, Lititz, was entrusted with the arrangements.