Richard Lee Hilfiker

Rich Hilfiker, born October 27, 1948 in Eugene, OR, died January 10,2012 in Yakima, Washington of SAC. The city kid, turned country boy by his loving wife Neva, learned to love the garden, the birds and all that nature offered on his little slice of paradise. He was proud to have served in the US Army from 1968 through 1976 with a tour in Vietnam and service in Germany. He relished learning about the Yakima Valley which allowed him to become the ultimate salesman in many fields including agriculture, manufacturing and industry.

His passion for golf led to his being instrumental in the growth of the Men's Club at Suntides Golf Course. He was very proud of his achievements and loved being involved in the promotion of the City Invitational and more recently the Seniors Invitational Tournaments. He will be greatly missed, both on and off the course!

He was so anticipating becoming a Grandpa in May. His gruff exterior couldn't hide his love of children - his heart was made of gold. His nieces and nephews learned much from Uncle Rich and all have stories of adventures with him.

He will be remembered forever by his beloved wife Neva Hilfiker and his son, Mark & Heidi Mochel; his Mom, Doris & Larry LaCock; his Dad, Gene & Roberta Hilfiker; siblings Jeff & Noela Hilfiker, Karen & Duane Weil, Les & Lori Hilfiker and their families. By his Karp family: Ron & Kathy Karp, Jeff & Jan Clark and their families. As well as many, many golf buddies, business cronies and friends.

His special Mom, Tiena Karp, whom he welcomed into their home to share the last ten years, preceded him in death. She loved him as her own and he took such wonderful care of her! He was always there for his Karp family and we have such great memories of the family gatherings for all the holidays in his home. We played and laughed with him whether it was boating, fishing, camping or golfing.

As his son Mark said, "We've lost a great man. He came into my mother's life, took in her kid and loved him; took in her family and loved them; but, most of all he loved my Mom. We love you and will miss you Rich! Thank you for being my father".

A Memorial Service will be held at Suntides Golf Course at a later date. Special thanks to North Star Lodge and the many angels who touched his life. Please share a memory or leave a comment at KeithandKeith.com. Donations in his honor may be made to First Tee of Yakima, PO Box 787, Yakima, WA 98907-0787 or at Mark & Heidi's adoption page at www.indiegogo.com/adoption-3.

Keith and Keith Funeral Home is entrusted with the arrangements.