Richard G. Blotkamp

Richard G. Blotkamp, 59, of Billings, went to be with the Lord on Sunday, Aug. 21, 2016, one day shy of his 60th birthday. He peacefully passed with loved ones surrounding him at the Billings Clinic Hospital. Rich was the son of Richard and Elaine Blotkamp. Rich was born on Aug. 22, 1956, in Billings.

Rich graduated from West High School in 1974. Rich earned a swimming scholarship to the University of North Dakota, as he was an All-State Swimming Champion. A year later, Rich joined the U.S. Marine Corp earning the title Sergeant and serving as a Data System Technician in Subic Bay, Philippines. In 1990, Rich earned a mathematics degree from MSU Billings.

While in the service, Rich married and started a family. He had three beautiful children. He was very generous and would literally give the shirt off his own back to anyone that would ask. Rich's smile could light up a room. He was a loving grandfather, father, brother and son. Rich had a passion for physics and loved to discuss theories involving quantum mechanics. Rich enjoyed reading, walking and spending time with family and friends.

Rich was preceded in death by his father (Richard), mother (Elaine) and sister Geri. He will be greatly missed by his son Matt (Anna Marie) of Santa Barbara, Calif.; son John (Satu) of San Francisco; daughter Hannah (Rich) of Belgrade; brother Mark of Lolo; sister Rose (Terry) of Billings; and his five grandchildren.

A vigil will be held for Rich at 7 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 25, at Michelotti-Sayers Mortuary, 1001 Alderson Ave. The funeral mass will be celebrated at 10 a.m. Friday, Aug. 26, at St. Thomas Church, 2055 Woody Drive, with rite of committal in Holy Cross Cemetery.