It is with the heaviest of hearts that we share the passing of Richard Barish. He passed away unexpectedly May 2, 2023 at the age of 69 at his home. Richard is survived by his daughters, Jenny Bowen (Jody), Karie Robbins (Doug) and Nicole Cotton (Steven); his grandchildren, Samantha, Kayla (Scott), Skye, Benjamin, Nathan, Molly and Nicole; his great grand children; Charlie and Waylon and his beloved dog, Chester He was preceded in death by his mother, Phyllis; his father, Gilbert and brother, Gene.
Richard was born and raised in Dewitt Township where he grew up on his family farm where he worked for his father at Gil Barish's Auto Service and at their snowmobile business. Later on Richard ventured out on his own with a variety of businesses; to include Barish's Tree Spade Service and Barish's Sandblasting and Welding. Richard was incredibly knowledgeable and I guess you could say there wasn't much he couldn't do. Over the past several years of his Sandblasting business he has established some of the most amazing relationships with his customers. Whether they were talking shop, politics, hunting, firearms or his family, it was always a great visit.
Richard was a wonderful man and to his family he was simply the best. The loss of his life is immeasurable. He was a dedicated, loving, protective, hard working father who loved his daughters, grandchildren and great grandchildren with all of his heart. He was our great teacher. When we needed advice, to know how to do something, an extra set of hands or even a bad dad joke he was always our go to person. He was not only there, he made us get right in there with him so we could learn what we needed to know and on the hard days he was right there helping us through the tough lessons of life as well.
While we believe Richard's life was cut short, he lived a full life. He lived for his family and enjoyed several hobbies. Throughout his life he put several laps on the asphalt at the East Lansing Go Cart Track, tore up many trails on his dirt bike, traveled endless miles of fresh powdered snow and enjoyed countless motorcycle rides. He loved to go fast and just about anything with a motor. He was also an avid outdoorsman. Hunting was one of his favorite pastimes and he sure was good at it.
Richard will forever be missed but his legacy will forever live in all of us. Give 'em hell Dad, we've got it from here.
Friends and family are invited to share in a Celebration of Life at his home on May 13th from 2pm - 5pm. Please contact the family 517-749-2250 an address or more information.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.grdewitt.com for the Barish family.
COMPARTA UN OBITUARIO
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