Richard Pugmire passed away on Nov. 9, 2014at St. Luke's Hospital in Meridian, Idaho. He was born on March 25, 1918 in St. Charles, Idaho, the second son of Leslie E. and Laura Richards Pugmire.
He was a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and served a mission in Argentina 1939 to 1942. Upon returning from his mission he met Lewellen Marie Jelte (Ellie) and they were married February 15, 1943 and in 1945 had a daughter, Joan Marie.
Early during World War II, he enlisted in the U.S. Army Air Corps and with his wife accompanying him spent three years training and serving as a commissioned officer and pilot in several of the Western states. At war's end, he, Ellie and Joan, went to Los Angeles, where he graduated from the University of Southern California.
During their 71 years of marriage they visited 32 countries and enjoyed many cruises plus 10 great trips to Hawaii.
Rich worked as an aerospace manufacturing engineer. He worked in Tehran, Iran, in the late 70's employed by Lockheed. He later retired and lived in Sandy, Utah with his wife and enjoyed his association with family and friends there. For the past 7 years Rich and Ellie have lived in Meridian, Idaho, near their extended family.
He is survived by his wife, Ellie; his sister June Mabey; his daughter, Joan (Bill) Wootton; three grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his brothers, Lloyd L. and Russell M.
Friends and family are invited to attend a viewing from 10:30-11:30 a.m. at Larkin Sunset Gardens, 1950 E. Dimple Dell Rd. (10600 S.), Sandy on Friday, Nov. 14, 2014 with a graveside service to follow at the Sandy City Cemetery, 9000 S. 700E.
