Obituary

Richard Lee Obenschain, beloved husband and dad, passed into glory on Wednesday, May 22, 2019. His unexpected death is felt deeply by all who knew and loved him. Rich leaves behind his beloved wife, Katherine MacDonald Obenschain, with whom he shared life for 33 years and the two people of whom he was most proud in this world: his children, Tess Alexandra and Hunter James.

Anyone who knew Rich knew of his passion for Christian outdoor education. A graduate of Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary, Rich earned his Master of Divinity and was the founder of the La Vida ministry at Gordon College. La Vida was both his calling and his life's work. A resident of Hamilton, MA, Rich grew up in Gatlinburg, TN, and Alexandria, VA. He was the son of James and Maxie Lee Obenschain (who both predeceased him).

He is survived by his cherished siblings: Barbara Huggins and her husband, Claud (predeceased); Miriam Walka and her husband, Warren; Jim and his wife, Beth; David; and Dan and his wife, Susan. He also leaves his mother-in-law, Elinor MacDonald, and was predeceased by his father-in-law, Jack MacDonald. He was a much-loved brother-in-law to: Cheryl MacDonald; Laurel MacDonald Franz and her husband, Cal; John MacDonald and his wife, Carol; Mark MacDonald and his wife, Meg. He also leaves many wonderful nieces and nephews whose lives he influenced profoundly. An intentionally lived life, like Rich's, touches many.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites you to donate in Rich's name to support La Vida's ongoing ministry. 

Please join us for a Celebration of Life Service at the A. J. Gordon Memorial Chapel at Gordon College on Friday, June 21, 2019 at 1 p.m. Learn more ➔

Arrangements are being made by the Campbell Funeral Home in Beverly. View the original obituary to leave condolences for Rich's family.