Richard Peter Korver

SALEM - Richard Korver, a teacher in the Salem School District for three decades, died March 9, 2011 in Salem after fighting brain cancer for 29 months. Rich taught Industrial Arts at Judson Middle School, Waldo Middle School and Clagget Middle School during his years in Salem. A favorite of his students, his status was supported by his attendance at the Woodstock Festival in 1969, and enhanced after surviving the crash of United Flight 173 in Portland, December of 1978. Every day was a gift after that experience.

His teaching career started in New Jersey after his graduation from Montclair State College in 1970. Over the years, he enjoyed many hobbies including Barbershop singing, photography, stained glass, bird watching, hiking, travel and billiards. He crossed America in his motor home several times renewing ties with family and friends. In recent years he particularly enjoyed donating funds to Oregon Educational Institutions.

Rich is survived by his wife, Lorrie; his eldest sister, Anita DeOld of Verona, NJ; eldest brother, Edward Korver of Beverton, OR; sister, Jean Pulley of Boston; and brother, Bob Korver of Carrollton, TX. His parents, Ed and Alida Korver, preceded him in death after many years of retired of residence in Salem. Rich requested that special recognition be given to his two best friends, Brad (T.D.) Allen and Les (Chewy) Gutfreund who stood at the bar with him on many a Wednesday evening and by his side until the end.

Join us in a Celebration of Rich's life Sunday March 20, 2011 1-3pm at Magoos Sports Bar 275 Commercial St. SE. In Lieu of flowers donations may be made to Willamette Valley Hospice. Arrangements under direction of Howell-Edwards-Doerksen Funeral Home.