Richard Alexander Stuetzel

Rich was born in Los Angeles, California, on February 25, 1959. He was the first child for Norma Jean and Richard Stuetzel. Over the next decade, Rich would become big brother to three younger brothers, a role he took very seriously. At age 12, Rich and his family moved from the city of Glendale to the city of Villa Park where he attended Serrano Elementary, Cerro Villa Middle and Villa Park High School graduating in 1977. While in high school, Phil’s Union Service Station, in Villa Park, was Rich’s first job. 

One year later, Rich began working for Selman Chevrolet as a mechanic. His career continued with Selman where he was promoted to the top performing Service Writer and, eventually, Service Manager. Rich celebrated his 40th anniversary at Selman Chevrolet on July 24, 2018, three days before he suffered a massive stroke. 

In 1988, Rich married Sharon Greer, and they began their lives together in Diamond Bar. Daughter, Kristen Nicole, was born in 1991 and son, Scott Alexander followed in 1995. Their family moved to Orange in 1997. Sadly, Sharon died of cancer in 2004. 

In 2008, Rich reconnected with his decades long friend, Michele Kelly. A new family was created when Rich and Michele married in 2010. Now the family included three more children, Katrina Michele Kelly Burns, Paul Edward Kelly and Grant Samuel Kelly. Together, they formed one family. 

Rich is preceded in death by his parents, Richard and Norma and his first wife Sharon. He is survived by his wife, Michele, his children Kristen and Scott and his stepchildren Katrina (Bryson Burns) Paul and Grant. He is also survived by his brothers David (Cindy), John (Sheryl) and Carl (Amy) as well as many nephews and nieces. 

In lieu of flowers, please considering donating to Guide Dogs of the Desert, a charity long connected with the Stuetzel family. We have adopted a dog in Rich’s honor and hope to sponsor him through training and graduation. Please be sure to select “Memorial Gift” and note Rich’s name when making your donation.

Their website is listed below, just click the link.

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Changing lives – You can touch someone’s life and make a difference right now. Your donation today will help change lives with a renewed sense of freedom and independence that only a custom-trained guide dog can provide!

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