Richard Vale Barnard, 97, passed away at his home in Lee’s Summit, Missouri, on Monday, March 3, 2025.
Dick, as he was known to family and friends, was born Dec. 26, 1927, in Borger, Texas, to John L. and Mattie Barnard.
Dick was a proud graduate of the University of Missouri in 1951 with a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture. Dick was a salesman for WR Grace, supplying agricultural chemicals to farmers across Missouri and Kansas.
Dick married the love of his life, Evelyn Parminter, on June 19, 1949. They raised two sons, Greg and Bill, and a daughter, Andie. Dick and Evelyn lived in Columbia and Lockwood, Missouri, Chanute and El Dorado while raising their children.
Dick and Evelyn enjoyed their time with friends playing cards, square dancing and traveling. Dick liked being outdoors, working a farm, snow skiing, boating and hunting. Dick and Evelyn moved to Lee’s Summit in 1992 to be near their children and grandchildren in the area.
Dick was active in the Baptist church, serving as a deacon and other functions in the churches they attended. Dick delivered Meals on Wheels to those in need in the Lee’s Summit area. He could talk to anyone and was willing to help where needed.
Dick is survived by his wife of 75 years, Evelyn; his sons, Greg, Bill (Darlene); his grandchildren, Amy (Steve), Jeremy (Bobbi), Erin (Jon), Caitlin and Luke (Hailey); four great-grandchildren; and two great-great-grandchildren.
Dick was preceded in death by his parents; his daughter, Andie; his two brothers, Frank and Don; and a sister, Sannie.
A graveside service will be at a later time.
Any donations made in Dick’s honor can be made to First Baptist Church of Lee’s Summit or a charity of your choice.
