Richard J. "Dick" Barnes

Richard J. "Dick" Barnes Battle Creek Richard J. "Dick" "Rich" Barnes, 58, of Battle Creek, died suddenly on Friday morning, March 27, 2009. He 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 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 had 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 (Kristine) Barnes of Battle Creek and Justin (Jessie) Barnes of Kalamazoo; 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, Kaitlin, Nathan, Zachary 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 and 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 and cousins. His smile, contagious laugh, sense of humor and magnetic personality will truly be missed by all who knew and loved him. At the request of the family, they will gather to receive friends 5:00 to 8:00 p.m., Monday, March 30, 2009 at the Farley-Estes & Dowdle Funeral Home. A memorial service to celebrate Dick's life will be held 3:00 p.m., Tuesday, March 31, 2009 at the First Wesleyan Church. Interment will be held privately at the Fort Custer National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Lighthouse Community Church Student Ministries, Cereal City Lions Club or the Shrine Hospitals for Children, would be appreciated. Personal messages for the family may be placed at www.farleyestesdowdle.com