Fred Rich passed away peacefully on July 1, with his wife at his side. Relatives, friends, and the Cornerstone Church Family have offered incredible support. Freddie Dale Rich, as per his birth certificate, was born on March 27, 1949, in Woodlake, CA, to Wanda Mae Rich (Boswell) and Kenneth Omer Rich. He grew up in Tracy, graduating from Tracy High in 1967. He earned his bachelor’s degree from Pasadena College of the Nazarene, and a master’s degree from Point Loma. Fred dedicated his working life to education. He taught for several years in Porterville, CA, before moving to Modesto City Schools. His roles included: teacher, coach, vice principal, and principal at several elementary and two junior high schools. He then served the Oakdale District as an Assistant and Deputy Superintendent of Human Resources and concluded his career there as the Superintendent.
After retirement, he donated his time to Oakdale Community Christian Sharing. He belonged to the Oakdale Lions Club and Dinner Club in town. A veteran congregant of Cornerstone Church, he served multiple terms on the Council. He loved to grill for the masses. He was an avid fisherman. He loved to play cards, backgammon and darts.
He leaves a legacy of love with his wife, Susan Lawrence Rich, and their two children: Sarah Lawrence Rich and Kenneth Lawrence Rich. He was blessed with a wonderful son-in-law, Oscar Garcia Castro, and two beautiful granddaughters: Eleanor and Lydia. He is survived by various uncles and aunts and his sister, Sharelyn Dietz, her three children and nine grandchildren. He leaves behind a mother-in-law; a sister-in-law; and two brothers-in-law, their wives and children. He is preceded in death by his parents, his father-in-law, and several aunts and uncles. Fred was blessed with many friends, especially some life-long friends. He will be greatly missed.
His favorite charities are: Oakdale Community Christian Sharing Center (Post Office Box 1160, Oakdale, CA 95361) and the Oakdale Rescue Mission (Post Office Box 1147, Oakdale, CA 95361). In lieu of flowers or plants, family asks for support of his charities.
The Oakdale (Calif.) Leader
The Riverbank (Calif.) News
July 15, 2026
