Richard Olthoff a.k.a. "The Miracle Man", got his wings and soared like an eagle on Saturday, October 3, 2020. After battling cancer 3 times he died peacefully in his home with his family. CaringEdge Hospice assisted his family during his final days.

Richard Olthoff was born on March 10, 1941 to Richard L. and Margaret Olthoff in Breckenridge, MN. He was raised in Bismarck, ND and played on 7 State Championship teams at Bismarck High School. Rich continued his education on an athletic scholarship at Jamestown College where he met his wife Diane.

Rich's professional career included teaching and coaching at Harvey High School and Velva High School where he later became principal. He moved from Velva to Minot and felt very blessed with the opportunity to open the new high school, Magic City Campus. It was there he became known as the Silver Fox. Although his passion was working with the kids, he accepted a position as assistant superintendent of the Minot Public School District. He retired early and this allowed him the opportunity to devote his time toward consulting educators, parents, and other organizations.

Two of Rich's pinnacle experiences during his educational career included being selected by the National Association of Secondary School Principals organization as one of the nation's 60 Outstanding Secondary School Principals in 1978 and by the North Dakota Counsel of Educational Leaders as the 1991 North Dakota Principal of the Year.

Throughout Rich's retirement years, he enjoyed spending time with all his grandchildren. He was all about family and delighted in watching his grandchildren participate in their activities. It also gave Rich great pleasure to spend time with his friends whether it was on the golf course or going on a road trip to gamble. While at home he loved spending time with his wife watching movies and reading books. He continued his passion for physical activity with daily trips to the YMCA.

Dr. Olthoff's loving family includes his wife: Diane; children: Kristi Olthoff Bauer (Tim) of Peoria, AZ; Paul (Jerusha) Olthoff of Minot; grandchildren: Max, Greyson, and Cale Olthoff of Minot; Kalin and Gavin Smith of Peoria, AZ; and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

Rich was preceded in death by his father, mother, and brother (Donald Olthoff), also his best buddies, Bella and Phantom.

Due to the Coronavirus Pandemic, a Private Family Service will be held at the Thomas Family Funeral Home in Minot.  Friends are invited to join with the family for a Celebration of Life on March 10, 2021 which would have been Rich's 80th birthday.

In lieu of plants, flowers and memorials, Rich has asked everyone who reads this obituary to "pay it forward" by helping someone in need and then encouraging them to do the same.

The family has provided the opportunity for friends to sign the online register book or share memories and condolences at www.thomasfamilyfuneralhome.com .

Richard Olthoff Flowers