Rich is a lifelong resident of Springfield. He was employed for 30 years by the Secretary of State's office as a systems software specialist, retiring in 2002. He is now the Director of Computer Services at Calvary Temple Christian Center where he is also a member of their orchestra. Rich has played cornet since age 9 and has been active in multiple organizations as varied as the Lincoln Land College Jazz Band, and the Capital Chargers Drum and Bugle Corps. At present, he also plays in the Springfield Municipal Band and the Heartland Brass Band where he is manager of both groups, Capital Area Big Band, and the Capital Area Adult Community Band. He also has played for several Muni Opera shows. With the 10th Cavalry Band, Rich plays an E flat Cornet.