Richard Barney

Richard “Rich” Allen Barney, age 69, of Sheridan, WY, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, August 31, surrounded by his loving family.

Rich was born on March 14, 1953, to Michael and Pauline Barney in Warren, Ohio. After Rich graduated from Lake View High School in 1971, he enjoyed many adventures with his childhood best friends, and then he went on to travel until he finally ended up in Denver, Colorado, in 1980. During his time in Colorado, Rich met some of his closest friends and the love of his life, Nancy.

Nancy and Rich were married on September 12, 1981, and went on to have one son, Nathan Barney. The family relocated to Sheridan, WY, in 1999, where Rich began a long career working for both the State of Wyoming and the City of Sheridan as an equipment operator. Rich was incredibly proud of his career and prided himself on his work ethic and loyalty. He built numerous lifelong friendships throughout his career. After retirement, Rich always enjoyed stopping at the City shop for coffee and to give all the guys a hard time.

Following his retirement, Rich spent his time building hotrods and harassing his son daily at work. Rich also had a love for the outdoors and the beauty of nature. Rich loved playing with his grandchildren, hanging out in his shop, and visiting neighbors and friends while working on his projects.

Rich was predeceased by his parents Michael and Pauline Barney. He is survived by his wife, Nancy, son Nate (Janeal) of Sheridan; grandchildren Jenna and Nash Barney; brother David Barney (Patti), sister Carol Pooler (Mark), and his nieces and nephew.

Rich was big-hearted, sentimental, and stubborn. Most of all, he loved his family and instilled in his son strong values that have served him well. Rich will be desperately missed by all those that he has left behind.

A celebration of life will be held at Rich’s shop on Saturday, September 17, from 2 to 6 p.m. In a true Rich fashion, we will be sharing memories and celebrating Rich’s life in the way he would want to be remembered – as a hardworking, loving father and loyal, unselfish friend who enjoyed life.

The family would like to thank the team at St. Vincent’s Medical Center ICU for their compassionate care during Rich’s stay. They would also like to thank our family and friends for their support and prayers. “Sit tall in the saddle and hold your
head up high. Keep your eyes fixed where
the trail meets the sky, and live like you ain’t afraid to die.
Don’t be scared…just enjoy the ride. ”
-Chris Ledoux