Richard Barnes

Richard J. "Dick" Barnes was born in Battle Creek on October 26, 1950 the son of Cecil N. and Madaline M. (Herrmann) Barnes and graduated from Lakeview High School where he was a stand out wrestler & athlete in 1968. Dick faithfully served his country as a Sergeant in the United States Army-Special Forces from 1968 to 1976.
Dick had a great love for his family and many friends. For the past few years, he has been at his parents' side to take care of anything they needed and was always there to offer a helping hand to his family and friends in need.
Dick is survived by his three boys who made him so proud, David Schaut of Wisconsin, Jonathon Barnes of Battle Creek and Justin (Jessie) Barnes of Benton Harbor; his mother, Madaline Barnes of Battle Creek; a brother, Mike (Linda) Barnes of Oregon and two sisters, Marcia (Roger) Carpenter of Indiana and Susan Barnes of Kalamazoo. He is also survived by his 3 grandchildren, Kaitlyn, Nathan, Zachery and many wonderful nieces, nephews and friends. Dick was sadly preceded in death by his father, Cecil Barnes on December 7, 2008.
Dick actively attended the First Wesleyan Church, Battle Creek and enjoyed being a part of the Monday Night Men's Group where he was able to form many close friendships. He was an avid sports fan and enjoyed playing golf with his dad, brother, sons or just a nice round of golf with the guys. Known by many of us as "The smartest man we know", Dick also enjoyed crossword puzzles, Sudoku, computers & gadgets or any game that required the use of your brain and where "useless" knowledge was seen as an advantage. His true love in life was his family and Dick enjoyed the annual cruises that he was able to take with his parents, brother, sisters & cousins. His smile, contagious laugh, sense of humor & magnetic personality will truly be missed by all who knew and loved him.
Dick went to be with his Lord & Savior suddenly on Friday morning, March 27, 2009 at the Sparrow Hospital in Lansing. A memorial service to celebrate Dick's life was held 3:00 p.m., Tuesday, March 31, 2009 at the First Wesleyan Church. In lieu of flowers, donations were made to the Lighthouse Community Church Student Ministries, Cereal City Lions Club or the Shrine Hospitals for Children. Arrangements were entrusted to the Farley-Estes & Dowdle Funeral Home. www.farleyestesdowdle.com.