He graduated from Clarence High School in Clarence, NY, earned his bachelor’s degree at Adrian College, and received his master’s degree from Eastern Michigan University. A gifted athlete, teacher and coach, he dedicated 40 years to education, including his years at Whiteford Schools in Ottawa Lake, Michigan. He was a proud member of Alpha Tau Omega fraternity and maintained lifelong friendships with his fraternity brothers.
Rich was known for his remarkable sense of humor, generosity, and genuine interest in others. During his final years at The Summit of Lakewood Ranch, Rich became a beloved member of the memory care community. Even as his memory faded, his genuine interest in others remained. He took time to learn about the staff, their families, and the people important to them. His warmth, kindness, and humor endeared him to those around him.
He found happiness in life’s quieter moments: watching sports with family, a good game of cribbage or poker, time with family and friends, and the companionship of his beloved dogs, especially Winston. Above all, he cherished his family. His life was not measured by possessions or recognition, but by the relationships he nurtured, the students he influenced, and the countless ordinary moments that made his life extraordinary.
Rich is survived by his daughter, Amy Beth Hill (Maury), and his son, Richard Hardy Barrows III (Teresa); his grandchildren, Andrew Hill (Jessica), Victoria Hill, Amber Barrows, and Trey
Barrows; his great-granddaughter, Harper Gretchen Hill; and his sister, Wende Sheedy (Brian). He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 40 years, Gretchen Koelsch Barrows, and his parents, Richard Hardy Barrows Sr. and Virginia Oexle Barrows.
A private celebration will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to either Dogs Inc., a nonprofit that trains service dogs for people with disabilities, or the Alzheimer’s Association, dedicated to supporting individuals and families affected by Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias.
Dogs Inc.: www.dogsinc.org;
Alzheimer’s Association: www.alz.org.
The family extends its heartfelt gratitude to the staff at The Summit of Lakewood Ranch for their compassionate care and friendship.
