Richard Paul Laubsch

On August 31, a great, resilient man passed away from pancreatic cancer. Rich was a gifted woodworker who left his mark in his house, and in the cabinets, sheds, decks and basements of both of his daughter's homes.

Rich retired after 37 years as a civil engineer, only to begin his next career with his true passion, wood working. And, caring for grandson, Ian, and granddaughter, Addison. He never missed a basketball or soccer game, or a gymnastic meet....he was truly a family man.

Rich was a selfless man who would do anything for anyone. He was a "master" at fixing anything; but if he was asked to help he insisted on doing it his way (meaning correctly)! He lived by his favorite saying: "measure twice, cut once"

His grandkids said that "grandpa had a way to teach them things like no one else could. Granddaughter Addison called him her "Uber driver" and asked her every day what 9 times 6 was, as that was the one she struggled with.

Rich married his sweetheart Carol and they spent 52 years traveling the country, becoming a historian, raising his daughters Bethany and Mollie, and then being blessed with two sons when Bethany married Mel and Mollie married Philip. Richard was so proud of his daughters.

Rich, a.k.a. "Medicine Man" loved the Mountain Man Rendezvous, he become a master leather worker, and made the entire family full leathers, dresses, pants, dusters, purses and amazing decorations. Even through fighting cancer, he sewed a new leather dress for Addi. The fastidiousness was evident in the perfect fringe, tight seams, and lots of beads and decorations.

Rich was a lifelong devout Lutheran, with a very strong faith.

Rich is survived by his wife Carol, daughter Bethany (Mel), and grandchildren Ian and Addison, and daughter Mollie (Philip), brothers Bob and Randy, sister Jeanette, and countless nieces and nephews and extended family.

Rich did not want a service. In lieu of flowers he hopes we all "pay it forward" and do something for someone else, as he always did.

We want to thank the Oncology Department at THC, and his very special doctors and nurses. Also, the very caring doctors, nurses, and staff at St. Mark's for giving Rich such amazing care. Thank You!

As Rich would say, "I'm off like a 'turd of hurtles'" and headed to a better place.