Richard E. Aurand, 49, of Northumberland, died on Sunday, May 17, 2026, while hiking with his family at Jacoby Falls near Williamsport, PA.

Richard was born August 6, 1976, in Sunbury, a son of Walter R. and Karen B. Aurand

He is survived by his wife of 17+ years, Ginger Aurand, their 15-year-old twins, Cole and Kendall Aurand, brother and sister-in-law Justin and Michele Aurand, parents-in-law Donley and Susan Hogg, brother-in-law and sister-in-law Rick and Jill Hogg, brother-in-law Andy Hogg, and three nephews and one niece, Logan Aurand, Lucas Aurand, Nick Hogg, and Kylie Hogg.

Rich proudly played baseball for and graduated from Shikellamy High School in 1994, after which he headed to York College for his first year, where he played on the baseball team.   He transferred to Susquehanna University, where he also played college baseball, and graduated in 1999. Rich received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Elementary Education.

After years of substitute teaching, he was thrilled to be hired by his alma mater, to teach at Chief Shikellamy Elementary School, where he remained for the last 21 years. Rich continued with his passion for baseball by serving as first an assistant coach for the Shikellamy High School Baseball Team for 8 years and then head coach for 7 years total.  The team won the 2007 District IV Championship under his leadership. 

Rich had a passion for all sports at all times!  He closely followed the Philadelphia Phillies, Eagles, Sixers, and Flyers as well as Penn State Football.  He continued to play 2nd base with his beloved Mifflinburg Phillies ball team for two decades. Rich was exceptionally proud of his children and their interests, which include Track and Field, Cross Country, and Girl Scouts for Kendall and Boy Scouts for Cole. No one will forget his silly jokes, huge smile, and genuine kindness.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Rich Aurand Baseball Scholarship Fund in the care of Shikellamy High School, Attention Ms. Kristen Lloyd, 600 Walnut Street, Sunbury, PA 17801.  Please write checks to “Shikellamy School District”.

A Celebration of Life service will be held on Saturday, May 23, 2026 at the Shikellamy High School Auditorium at 600 Walnut Street, Sunbury, PA 17801.  Visitation with family will take place from 12:30pm to 2:00pm followed by a 2:00pm service with Pastor Megan Millard of the family’s home church, Catawissa Avenue United Methodist Church. 

In Rich Aurand fashion, please wear a sports jersey or casual clothing!