ELLIS LAMARR "BOB" PRITCHETT Bob Pritchett, age 86, of Richland, died on November 18, 2012, under Hospice care in Richland. Bob was born Ellis LaMarr Pritchett on July 9, 1926, at Nampa, Idaho, to Clarence and Mabel Peer Pritchett. After a short time in the Army AirCorp, the war ended and he went to the University of Idaho for his BS degree. He graduated from WSU in 1950 with a Master's in Education. He was a star basketball player for the Univ. of Idaho from 1947-1950. He taught and coached at Nampa High School and in Emmett Idaho before moving to Richland in 1955. At Richland High School, Bob taught biology, math and PE. He coached many sports, and started the wrestling program. He loved golf, hunting and fishing. In later years his body failed him, and he was home-bound for a number of years--although his mind remained sharp. He delighted his family with tales of his exploits with the Army's basketball team, where he twice played exhibition games against the Globe Trotters. He told tall tales, known to friends as "Pritchett jokes"--those that end badly with moans from the listeners. He was greatly loved and will be missed by his family and friends. Survivors include his wife of 42 years, Joretta "Sue" Garrison Pritchett; son Reverend Blaine wife Dale Pritchett of Omaha, Nebraska; daughter Nancy Pritchett Stajduhar living in China; and daughter Molly Pritchett Parkhurst husband Brian of Edmonds, Washington. Four grandchildren: Danny Pritchett, Aaron wife Tara Pritchett, and Larissa husband Jeremy Travis, all of Omaha. Also Ben Stajduhar Krisheena Mason in Richland. Great-grandkids include Pritchett kids Skyler and Carter, and Travis kids Brody, Drake, Gage, and Grady. He also leaves behind many nieces and nephews. His parents, five sisters and one brother preceded him in death.
We appreciate the care he received at Eagle Assisted Living in his final days, as well as the caring Hospice staff. In lieu of flowers, please consider memorial donations to Hospice at the Chaplaincy, 1480 Fowler St., Richland WA 99352.
There will be no memorial service, at his request. Bob will be cremated and sprinkled in the river. According to Bob, "I ate many fish out of these rivers, and they need a chance at me." The family invites friends and family to join them at 12:30pm on Wednesday, November 21, for an informal gathering at the Memories at Sunset Event Center behind Einan's in Richland, with snacks and visiting. There are no planned speakers, but those who wish to share a memory will be welcome to do so.