Michael Mathias Barich

Mr. Barich was my American History teacher at Perkins in 1959-60. His love for his country was evident through his teaching; we were all required to take the U.S. Citizenship Test to pass his class. He was a true Patriot.

It was just today that I heard of Mr. Barich's death. He was my history teacher at Perkins Junior High during the 1963-64 school year. By the end of that school year, all I wanted to be when I grew up was to be a History teacher just like him. He was knowledgable, understanding, caring, funny, and kind. Mr. Barich helped shape the course of my life and for that I am grateful.

The other day someone asked me who my favorite teacher was? I said, "Mr. Michael Barich." I read the Akron Beacon Journal from Cincinnati and I was very unhappy to see his name. I learned so much from him in the early 60's. I'm sure he is on God's right side.

We are shocked & saddened to here of the passing of "Uncle Mike".

I remember driving him to the airport the morning after my uncle Ivan’s funeral in August of 1994, probably around 5 am. We got up extra early so that we could go out and have breakfast. For some reason, we could not find any restaurants that were open, except for one, aptly named, The Grease Pit.

We were the only two in the place. And the food was greasy.
We both laughed as he made me...

Michael Barich was know to us as Mijo. My first contact with him was reading the letters he wrote to my mother (who was his cousin) more than 35 years ago. Although I only met him in person about 10 years ago, I felt as though I had known him my whole life. He displayed that great sense of humour which I have discovered is a family trait among all of us.

I am proud to have known Mike both as a teacher and as a friend. The love he demonstrated for both his family and his students is a testament to his beautiful spirit and a life well-lived. He will be missed by many but also remembered fondly and with deep admiration for what the impact of one person can be on the lives of so many.

We are deeply shocked and saddened to hear of Mikes death. We will always remember his smile and sense of humor. He was my countryman. Our deepest heartfelt sympathy to Ceil and the family. We share in your loss and our thoughts and prayers are with you. Archie, Maria and family

My husband, Bob, and I both knew Mr. Barich from Perkins Junior High. He was loved and respected by everyone. Our heartfelt sympathy and prayers go out to all of Mr. Barich's family. He was a great man and his memories will live forever.

We were so sorry to hear about Mike. We always enjoyed our get togethers every winter at Cloverdale and what great humor he added to every day events.
Our deepest sympathy...