Richard Barden

July 28th, 1930 - June 24th, 2018

Richard's Memory Wall

We encourage you to share your most beloved memories of Richard here, so that the family and other loved ones can always see it. Share your favorite stories or comment on those shared by others.

Richard and Mary meant so much to my family. When we arrived in CASCO Township in 2006 they welcomed us so warmly. Mary shared so many school supplies and books with the grandkids we were raising. Richard encouraged me to dust off my clarinet and become a part of the CASCO Community Band. It was the best experience i ever had with the finest people you can share a love of music with. Richard led us with "Strike up the Band " and we were on our way to a fantastic concert.Trick or treat for the kids meant a stop at Mary and Richard's all decked out in costumrsmThe treats were great and their photos of the kids made the grandkids feel so special. I will miss Richard's kind nature. He touched so many lives. I take heart in the knowledge that Richard joins his Mary and both will be smiling down on their family, friends,and community. They made a difference in the lives of those who had the privelege to cross paths with them.. Farewell Good and faithful servant, Richard. You are truly home.

Denise Meister

There are not enough superlatives to describe Richard Barden. Could there be anyone who more personified a community than he? I am thankful to have known Richard all my life, from very early days of taking piano lessons from his mom and having him show me his old Model A (or was it a T?), from Casco band performances, from the Casco Church orchestra, from many duets at church, one time we played for a Ladies Aid supper at the church, from learning about farming and spraying, from his lessons on the organ so I could begin playing for church services, from touring the top floor of what was Opal's house filled with antiques (did you know she could transpose keys on the fly?), from accompanying him as he played the marimba. I could go on and on. And through it all, always a kind word for everyone. What a treasure to have known him.

Scott Evans

Prior to joining the Army I joined the Casco Band which back at that time was directed by Richard and even for several years after. He definitely watched alot of young musicians grow up in our community and was loved by most of us. I will never forget all the encouragement he as well as the rest of the Casco Band gave me when I was first learning to play an instrument all the way til I was more experienced prior to joining the Army. I am thankful for all the support and encouragement they gave me during my time in the Army. Your family will be in my prayers.

Barbara Sisson

I knew Richard all of my life. He and my mom were the only babies in the hospital when they were born! He played the marimba and I loved it . He always told me that he would play it for my funeral but.. number 1- it is cumbersome to set up and take down, number 2-he would do it, but most likely not. So I guess when I go he will play it for me in heaven! (Surely there is one set up there.) I imagine he and Mary together and it makes my heart full. I also imagine he will be directing a band. Rest in Peace my Friend, I will miss you.

Marie Teske

When my parents Judy and Gary Marten moved to Ganges in 1976 and bought the "Bushee" farm, Dick Barden was one of the first welcoming faces to grace our door. He made our farm a routine visit as he was checking on chemical supplies. In 1978 a company that took aerial photos of farms contacted us that they had a photo of the farm. My parents bought the photo. When the photo arrived, there was a car that was not ours parked by the barn's spray room door. "Why there is Dick Barden's car!" exclaimed my dad. Mr. Barden was a kind, gracious and good man. He will be missed my many.

Melanie (Marten) Ruppert

Rich and Kristin,
Words can't begin to tell you the influence both Richard and Mary had in my life. Your mom instilled in me a passion for reading. I think I must have read half of her books in the back cabin. And Richard instilled in me a passion for music and humility. I still count my years in South Haven as some of the best of my life. Please know how sorry I am that I can not be in attendance to give my respects and tell you as you already know, how much Richard will be missed by all of us. Rev. Jim and Sheri Wood - Charlotte, NC