It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of Richard (Rick) Kartchner, 67, of Covina, California.

He was killed in New Mexico on December 12th, 2024.

Rick was born on August 15, 1957, in Covina, California, to Rulon George Kartchner and Barbara Berniece Kartchner, both of whom are deceased. He was the cherished brother of Gary (& Karen) Kartchner, Susan (& Jon) Chollet, and Ronald Kartchner. Rick graduated from South Hills High School in 1975.

He was the beloved husband of Caralee Homer Kartchner, whom he married on October 20, 1984, celebrating 40 years of marriage in 2024. He was a devoted father to Lafayette Kartchner, Camilla (& Cody) Clawson, Corina (& Michael) Butler, Christopher Kartchner, Reece Kartchner, and Kelly (& James) Gaines, and an adored grandfather of Kingsley Park, Emily Butler, Willow Clawson, and Annie Butler.

After their marriage, Rick and Caralee first lived in Apple Valley, California. They moved to the San Dimas area when Caralee was pregnant with their first child, where they welcomed their oldest three children. In 1992, they moved to Las Vegas, where they welcomed their youngest three children and lived until 2012. In 2012, Rick made the decision to settle in Dana Point, California, which he and his family considered home for nearly a decade until they moved in 2021 to Ammon, Idaho, where Rick lived until his passing.

One of Rick's most impactful experiences was when he moved his family to Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, from 2006 to 2009. This time spent in a foreign country allowed Rick to teach his children about different cultures and customs, providing them with an experience they never would have had elsewhere. It was also a time of personal growth for Rick, as he learned from the people and the culture around him. During this period, he also engaged in some of his most significant missionary work, eager to share his beliefs and passions with those around him.

Rick worked as a truck driver when he met his wife, Caralee, and continued in this career off and on throughout his life. Eventually, he transitioned into real estate, beginning with commercial leasing and development. Later, Rick added the residential sector to his work and opened his brokerage, Durango Hills Realty.

Rick served a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints in the Washington, Spokane mission from October 1982 to April 1984.

A devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, Rick was known for his missionary work and extensive contributions to Family History. He loved his children dearly and was a friend to all. His kindness and generosity were felt by everyone who knew him. He had a big smile that made everyone else smile and a contagious laugh that could bring joy to any circumstance. His family was always of the utmost importance to him.

A memorial service will be held on February 22nd, 2025, at 28291 Alicia Pkwy, Laguna Niguel, CA 92677. For those unable to attend in person, a Zoom link will be provided for virtual participation.

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