Robert Champion Rich, 67, of Guilford, died on April 23 at the Veterans Hospital in West Haven. “Bobby” was born in New London on May 22, 1944, son of the late Gordon H. Rich, Sr., formerly of Killingworth, and the late Mary (Bean) Rich, formerly of Guilford. He grew up in Guilford and entered the U.S. Army in April 1967 at the age of 23. Before he left for Vietnam in September 1967, he married Gail (Sonnichsen) Rich of Madison.

Bobby served as a Specialist 4th Class in the First Mechanized Infantry Battalion of the 25th Infantry Division, stationed at Cu Chi in Vietnam and assisted in protecting Saigon during the Tet Offensive. He was wounded in January 1968 during an ambush and also in March 1968 during an ammunition dump explosion that destroyed the company area.

Bobby served in the Army for two years, receiving an honorable discharge. He was awarded the Combat Infantryman Badge, National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Award of the Good Conduct Medal, the Bronze Star, and two Purple Hearts.

Bobby had been employed at Walgren Tree Experts, both before joining the Army and after returning home. He enjoyed collecting antique bottles and North American Indian arrowheads, and he was an avid bird watcher and nature lover. He was incredibly generous, and his friends and family have many fond memories of his love for all animals.

He is survived by his sisters, Sharon Rich of Branford, Nancy Alexander of Ivoryton, and Linda Rich of New Haven, and his brothers, Gordon Rich, Jr. of Old Saybrook and David Rich of New Haven. He was also survived by many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his brother, Gerald Rich, formerly of Guilford.

A private ceremony is being planned at Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia, where he will be buried with full military honors. Another memorial gathering is also being planned in Guilford.