Ritch Rex Hoard

Mr. Ritch Rex Hoard, 81 of Atlanta, Michigan died peacefully at home, his beloved “Shack,” surrounded by the love of family on June 8, 2024. He was born in Alma, Michigan on July 7, 1942 to the late Ivan and Ione (Orvis) Hoard. He has resided in Atlanta for the last 20 years alongside his wife, Sandra. He worked as a mechanical engineer with Chrysler for 35 years. Ritch was a member of the Big Rock Congregational Church. He enjoyed riding his motorcycle, carpentry, listening to music, kayaking, camping, reading, and putzing around the house. 

 Ritch’s faithful devotion to his family, church and community was immeasurable. He was a Christ follower who spent his life sharing God’s love and light with the world. A self-described softie, he embraced his roles as Papa, Pops, and Grandpa with his whole heart. Ritch pioneered dad jokes and was a craft master of woodwork, sarcasm and puns. He appreciated the subtle and grand beauty of the outdoors, beginning when he spent time as a child at “The Shack.” He was a mechanical wizard and problem solver. His superior sense of direction and visual memory were impressive. He never got lost, he just found new places, and now he is in the best one of all. He is and will be deeply missed.

 He is survived by his loving wife, Sandra Hoard of Atlanta; children, David Peckinpaugh of Lewiston; Bryan (Amy) Peckinpaugh of Redford; Jessica (Mulonge) Kalumbula of Grand Rapids; Sarah (Juan) Quispe of Tampa, Florida; grandchildren, Uriah Peckinpaugh, Jana Kalumbula, Kalani Kalumbula, Amani Kalumbula, Naomi Quispe, Isabella Peckinpaugh; sisters, Linda Abbott of Weidman; and Marilyn (Jim) McHugh of Zanesville, Ohio. He was preceded in death by his parents, and daughter, Andrea Peckinpaugh.

 In accordance with his wishes cremation has taken place. There will be a memorial service held at 1:00 PM on Friday, June 14, 2024 at Big Rock Congregational Church, Atlanta; Pastor Keith Jones officiating. A celebration of life gathering will take place in the summer, details to be determined. In lieu of flowers, Ritch and Sandy suggest donations to either cause below which supported Ritch's life journey.