þ Richard Rich Lee Bucher, 62
Richard Lee Rich Bucher, 62, passed away in Great Falls on July 30, 2006.
Richard spent his early years with his family in small communities around the Great Falls area. After his discharge from the Air Force, Rich lived briefly in California, then returned to his home state of Montana. Kalispell was Richard s home for many years.
Family was very important to Rich, and he recently returned to Great Falls to be closer to his family.
He is survived by his brothers, Charles and Steve of Vaughn, and Bradford of Virginia Beach, Va., and their families; and many nieces and nephews.
Richard was an advocate and spokesperson for his needs and wishes and for others who have disabilities. Many local and state agencies benefited from his volunteer work.
He gave his time and talents to Northwest Montana Mental Health, NAMI, United Way of Flathead County, Warm Springs Medication Review Committee, Managed Care Oversight Committee, and People 1st of Montana.
Richard gave thousands of hours of volunteer time to the Special Friends Advocacy Program. His dedication and talents were instrumental in the growth of services for people who have developmental disabilities.
A memorial tribute will take place at 4: 30 p.m. Aug. 23 at the Woodland Park Pavilion in Kalispell. A barbecue will be afterward.
Richard requested that memorial donations be made to the Special Friends Advocacy Program, 313 Second Ave. W., Kalispell, MT 59901.