Obituaries: Keith Gerald Richcreek (Nov. 03, 1924 - Feb. 19, 2010)

Keith Gerald Richcreek

He joined the Army directly out of high school and represented the United States in World War II.

After serving his country, Keith moved to Crescent City where he started his career as a commercial fisherman. Keith built and owned the first steelboat in the Crescent City Harbor. He named it the 'KDM' after his family, Keith, Dorothy and Michael. Keith married Dorothy Gonsalves later to become Dorothy Richcreek and they were married for 60 years at the time of his passing.

Mr. Richcreek was forced to retire from fishing after 35 years and went on to work in the construction business.

Mr. Richcreek built homes for another 15 years when he “retired” for the last time. Keith stated that retirement was “the worst job he ever had!” He was both well-known in the community and loved by all. He was always eager and willing to lend a helping hand. Keith loved the outdoors which is evident in his chosen professions in addition to his pasttimes which were hunting, walking his dog and spending time with his loved ones — especially his great-grandchildren.

Keith was preceded in death by his parents Art and Bertha Richcreek, brother Elvin Richcreek, and his sister Betty Cooper. He is survived by his wife Dorothy Richcreek, sister Marge Fromm Weedin, son Keith W. Richcreek, adopted son Michael McNertney, granddaughter Leigha Cochrane and her husband Kevin, grandson Clifford Richcreek, and two great-grandsons Isaac and Conner. He is also survived by three step-grandsons and numerous nieces and nephews.

It was at Keith’s request that services not be held, however the family will be holding a celebration of  life and potluck at the Lighthouse Inn on Feb. 27 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, it is the expressed wishes of the family for donations to be made to the Wild Rivers Community Foundation (501 H Street, Suite 5, Crescent City, CA 95531) for the Keith Gerald Richcreek Memorial Fund. All donations will go to support individuals who suffer from dementia, disabilities, etc. when they come up missing.

The family expressed their desire in making Operation Lifesaver available to those who need it to help prevent unnecessary deaths in the future.