Rich was born on March 21, 1946, in Kalamazoo, Michigan to Dick and Virginia (Shattuck) Verhaagen. He passed away peacefully on Sunday, October 9th at his home after a long and courageous battle with cancer.

Rich grew up in Kalamazoo in a loving family with his siblings Marie, Sue and Don. He graduated from Loy Norris High School in 1964. He started to work at Eaton's Corporation in 1965 until he retired in 2002. Two sons were born from his first marriage.

During a business trip to France in 1977, he met the love of his life Martine Le Noc. They were married in 1978 in Kalamazoo. He so enjoyed showing his new bride the beautiful area where he grew up. Spent lots of fun times on Lake Michigan and camping was top on their list as they love the outdoors. They favored road trips to flying so they could enjoy the countryside along the way.

In 1983, his job brought him to Shenandoah, Iowa and it became their permanent home. Loved the quiet pace of a small town and proximity of a big city.

After his retirement, Rich enjoyed working on the house (kept him very busy), trips to Michigan to visit his parents. Going out to eat and trying new restaurants around the area and Omaha was so fun but his favorite place was his patio.

Cancer never robbed him of his positive attitude. He fought with such dignity and had nothing but admiration from his oncologists (and medical staff) and his wife, his #1 cheerleader.  He had kindness on his face and his heart and everyone who met him can testify to that. Holding the fort is his wife and loving fur baby Felix.

No services are scheduled.  Memorials may be directed to the SMC Cancer Center or St. Croix Hospice.