Charles E. Kriech of Santa Barbara passed away on Dec. 23, 2024, surrounded by family after a long, loving and fulfilling life.
He was born April 7, 1931, in Indianapolis, Indiana, to Carl and Louisa Kriech. He grew up in Indianapolis and graduated from Purdue University in 1952 with a degree in engineering. After graduating, he served three years in the Navy during the Korean Conflict.
Upon returning to Indianapolis, Charles began working at General Motors, where he met the love of his life, Nancy Fox. Charles and Nancy married in May 1957.
They moved to Santa Barbara in 1961, and established deep roots in the community while raising their six children.
Charles worked for General Motors on various projects, including the incorporation of the first computer into a GM vehicle and mentoring many young engineers, until he retired in 1993.
Charles was deeply involved in St. Raphael’s Church, where he served as the head of the lectors for over 50 years and mentored many individuals in the art of public speaking.
A strong advocate for blood donation, he frequently received calls to donate blood and platelets due to his rare blood type.
In retirement, Charles enjoyed working on his 1932 Ford Model B, which he had owned since 1955. He was also an active member of a local Model A club, and he and Nancy loved connecting with fellow vintage car enthusiasts.
Charles felt happiest when surrounded by family and friends. He enjoyed having the ones he loved around him, whether it was celebrating his birthday with angel food cake and vanilla ice cream or playing card games like Euchre. Charles also was a member of a local poker group that played together for years.
He was fortunate to be survived by his loving wife of 67 years, Nancy, and their children: daughters Beth Ann Vaughan (Matt) of Goleta; sons Andrew Kriech (Sharon) of Austin, Texas, Jeffrey Kriech (Emilie) of San Jose, California; daughters Amy Holtz (Brian) of Goleta, Emily Quinn (Mike) of New Castle, Colorado, and Sarah Hayden (Thomas) of Camarillo, California.
He is also survived by his 16 grandchildren: Vanessa, Katy, Chelsea, Nick, Rachael, Michelle, Nolan, Emma, Simon, Ryan, Megan, Lily, Bryce, Nora, Jason, and Spencer. Additionally, he was blessed with five great-grandchildren. He is remembered fondly by his brother David Kriech of Texas.
A memorial for Charles will be held at 10 a.m. Jan. 11 at St. Mark’s University Parish, 6550 Picasso Road, Isla Vista, 93117. Reception to follow memorial service.
Donations in Charles’ honor can be made to the Santa Barbara VNA/Hospice.