Richard Helvie Barnett

Richard (Dick) Barnett passed away peacefully on August 9, 2017, at the age of 82. He was born on September 25, 1934, in Upland, California to Richard and Virginia Barnett. He enjoyed growing up on the family farm in Temecula where he had many fond memories of playing with cousins and siblings, involvement in 4-H, FFA, and summer camping at the beach where he developed a lifelong love of fishing. He attended Elsinore Union High School where he played football then later attended Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, where he majored in animal husbandry. He met his wife-to-be, Nancy Saulsbury in Santa Barbara. After a six month courtship, they were married on August 29, 1954. The couple settled in the Ojai Valley in 1959 where they raised their four daughters.

Dick loved working at Casitas Municipal Water District. During his 40 years he returned to college to complete his bachelor’s degree in biology. He became an expert in water quality, made many friends, and ended his career as Assistant Manager of the district.

He was a devoted Christian and very active in the Ojai Presbyterian Church for over 55 years including serving as a Deacon. Dick was a member of the Ojai Valley Rotary Club and was known for his tri-tip barbecues for many fundraisers and events.

Dick loved and cherished his family. Time spent with family included attending church every Sunday, many picnics, summer ski trips, frequent trips to Santa Ynez to visit family, and attending his grandchildren's many events. Dick enjoyed fishing in the Eastern Sierras and out on the ocean with family and friends. He enjoyed wrapping fishing poles as a hobby but more than that he loved giving them to those he cherished.

He is survived by his wife, Nancy Barnett; his daughters, Linda Barnett, Cindy (Hal) Wilson, Cheri (Andy) Borg, Lori (John) LeSuer; his siblings, Phillip Barnett and Barbara Warren. He will be lovingly remembered by his nine grandchildren and three great grandchildren who adoringly called him Papa. Dick was preceded in death by his parents Richard and Virginia Barnett, his brother Robert Barnett and by many other dear friends and family.

The Barnett family would like to express their deep appreciation to all those involved in caring and supporting Dick and his family.

Memorial services will be held at the Ojai Valley Presbyterian Church, Saturday, August 19, 2017, at 10 o'clock.

Gifts in his memory may be made to the Ojai Valley Presbyterian Church or the Ojai Rotary club youth scholarship.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Ted Mayr Funeral Home, 3150 Loma Vista Road, Ventura. Condolences may be sent to TedMayrFuneralHome.com.