A native Kansan, Rich was born in Emporia, grew up in Salina, and resided in Leawood. He earned degrees from Emporia State University and Kansas State University.
Energetic, passionate, and hard-working, Rich entered the FBI after teaching high school history for 11 years. As a Special Agent, he attained the distinguished rank of Certified Intelligence Officer. After retiring from a 24 year career with the FBI.
Rich resumed working both as a federal contractor for the Bureau and as an educator. Holding a Doctorate in Education from Arizona State University, Rich taught online undergraduate and graduate level courses in Criminal Justice and Intelligence.
Larger than life aptly describes Rich. He was a loyal and caring man who always put others before himself. Rich touched hundreds of lives, provided a role model for many young people, and belonged to Leawood Baptist Church. He served on the Band Boosters Board at Shawnee Mission East where his daughter, Natalie, is a drum major. Rich was frequently seen driving his 1955 Thunderbird, smiling and waving behind the wheel.
Through coaching and officiating, Rich combined his lifelong passion for wrestling and devotion to helping youth. Known as Coach too many, including wrestlers at Indian Hills Middle School and a two-time Olympian and World Champion, Rich organized numerous wrestling camps and actively participated in the Kansas City Wrestling Club.
A cheerful and dedicated husband, father, grandfather, and brother, Rich loved his family dearly and took great pride in their accomplishments. He brought much joy, humor, and laughter into their lives, as well as those in his extended family and circle of friends.
Rich was preceded in death by his parents, Oscar and Millie, and older brother Wayne. He is survived by his wife, Susan Schillie Nitsch, daughter Natalie, and twin sons Justin “Son A” (wife Casie) and Chad “Son B” (husband Chris) who affectionately called their Dad “Bop.” Rich is also survived by his grandchildren Adalyn and Emmett, brothers Darrell, Danny, and Russell, best friend Chip Barger, and Buddy, his beloved Basset Hound.
The family will host a Celebration of Life for Rich at the home on Friday, March 23rd, from 4-6 pm. Everyone who loved Rich is invited. So that’s everyone who knew Rich. The atmosphere will be upbeat, and the celebration will be held in the backyard. Dress is casual.
To honor Rich’s legacy, the Kansas City Wrestling Club has established the Rich Nitsch Wrestling Scholarship Fund to give all future wrestlers the opportunity to join the Club. Contributions may be sent to the Rich Nitsch Wrestling Scholarship Fund c/o Kansas City Wrestling Club, 9030 High Drive, Leawood, KS 66206.
