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BORN
1931
DIED
2016
Richard BARNEY Obituary
BARNEY, Richard Lewis "Dick"
October 18, 1931-
December 27, 2016
Dick passed away peace- fully at home December 27th at the age of 85. He is survived by his wife of 56 years Mary Ann, his son Mark, daughter-in-law Greta, sister Alice Moore and many loving nieces and nephews.
Dick was born in Bridgeport, Connecticut to Levi and Mary Elisabeth Barney. He graduated from Bassick High School in Bridgeport and then enlisted in the Air Force where he was stationed in Sacramento, CA and then Fairbanks, AK attaining the rank of Sargent. After the military, he and his best friend from the service Dick Gillespie decided to attend college at Whitworth on the GI Bill. At Whitworth, he met the love of his life Mary Ann Dunlap and they were soon married. They settled in Seattle after college and gave birth to their sons Mark( 1961- ) and Todd (1964- 1969). Dick began his career for the Seattle Housing Authority and was an administrator for several housing projects. He retired in 1986 as the head administrator for their senior housing program. After retirement Dick volunteered at Mary Ann's school until she retired in 1997.
Dick enjoyed playing sports and was an accomplished fast-pitch softball pitcher. He was voted Cascade League "man of the year" in 1974 and was inducted into the Seattle Metro ASA softball hall of fame in 1984. He also enjoyed playing basketball with Mark on Northminister Presbyterian Church's team. Dick had a real zest for life and enjoyed meeting people and forming life-long friendships. His quick wit was enjoyed by all. He and Mary Ann loved to travel, especially by cruise ship. He was just as happy singing in the church choir or watching TV in the evenings with Mary Ann by his side.
Dick had two great loves in his life; his wife and family and anything involving Whitworth University. In 1999, Dick and Mary Ann moved from Seattle back to Spokane where they first met. They purchased a townhouse a few minutes walk from Whitworth. He attended and truly enjoyed many athletic and musical events and other activities at Whitworth. He cherished his interactions with the student athletes and was proud to have served as President of the Crimson Pirates Booster Club and of being on the Whitworth Foundation Board of Directors. Dick and Mary Ann were honored to receive the 2002 Alumni Service to Whitworth Award.
A Memorial Service will be held at Northwood Presbyterian Church 6721 N. Monroe at 1:00 PM on Saturday January 7th.
Remembrances can be made in Dick's honor to Whitworth University Athletic Fund "GO BUCS!"
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Richard BARNEY
Dave Zehrung
June 8, 2021
From my time at Whitworth (1959-60) I knew Dick as a gregarious and illuminating personality. Mary Anne was a friend of mine from High School years, having met her through Youth Presbytery and summer camp. I went into Air Force in 1960 and lost contact. So sorry for Mary Anne's loss. My wife, Connie, and I also now live in Spokane.
January 24, 2017
To Aunt Mary Ann and cousin Mark - thanks for sending us a note so we got the sad news. We so enjoyed seeing you both at the CT Barney family reunions in recent years and especially on your cruise visit to Bar Harbor where we could give you guys your own private tour. Hope you'll make it out here again in the future.
Love, John and Alison Lawrence
January 24, 2017
So sorry to get your note about Uncle Richie's passing. I had not heard. Love and prayers to you and your family. May this "gentle giant" rest in peace. Ironically, this note comes on the third anniversary of my Mom's death. She is with her baby brother again.
Cindy and Jack Plavnicky
Mary jane Lawrence
January 23, 2017
Sorry to hear about the passing of Uncle Richie.Love Tom & Mary jane
Carolyn Ferrell
January 8, 2017
Dear Mary Ann and family,
I am so sorry to hear about Dick's passing.
He was always such an upbeat and happy presence in his years of volunteering at Blaine elementary.
I have happy memories of my visit to the 2 of you at your Spokane townhome and his enthusiastic tour of the Whitworth campus.
May knowing how many lives he touched in meaningful ways bring some comfort to you in the days ahead.
Fondly,
Carolyn
January 5, 2017
Dear Mary Ann and family, I was so sorry to hear about Dick's passing. I remember fondly about the cruises and time shares that you included us in your circle of friends. Ellen and I enjoyed those times together. Take Care. Bob Bergman
January 5, 2017
The Washington State Veterans Cemetery extends our deepest sympathies to the family of Richard L. Barney for your loss. We honor him for the service and sacrifice he made for our nation, he is a true hero.
E F
January 4, 2017
I am so sorry for your loss. You can find hope in the ressurection where you can see each other again.
January 4, 2017
Thank you for your service to our country. Rest in peace.
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