Richard E. Barrett

1917 – 2008

Born in Los Angeles, December 17, 1917. Richard, known as Dick, attended school in

Montreux, Switzerland, John Burroughs Jr. High School, L.A High School, and USC class of 1937

where he majored in business and international affairs. He belonged to Sigma Phi Epsilon

fraternity and was president of the Trojan Ski Club and San Gorgonio Ski Club.

Upon graduation, he worked briefly at Douglas Aircraft. He enlisted in the US Air Force serving as

Captain in the Pacific theatre, specializing in intercepting and decoding Japanese messages for

2 ½ years.

Returning home he formed Barsa Company, selling US products overseas. He

published and exported Encyclopedia Britannica, medical books, bibles, and

dictionaries in Spanish and Portuguese, employing over 5000 worldwide.

Dick met his wife Emily Collins in Lake Arrowhead, CA where their families

had lake front homes next to each other. They were married in Pasadena, CA

in 1942. After selling Barsa Company in 1967, he settled in Newport Beach where he

lived with his family for 41 years and pursued other investments. The highlight of his life was deep

sea fishing. He held multiple world records and pursued the tag and release program. His boat,

‘”Grin’n Barrett” was well known throughout the fishing community. He was president of the Balboa

Angling Club, member of Southern California Tuna Club, and life member of the Tuna Club of

Avalon. An avid sportsman, he enjoyed snow skiing, golfing, and traveling. He was a

member of Lakeside Country Club, Santa Ana Country Club, and Thunderbird Country Club.

Dick was major Contributor to Hoag Hospital, USC, and other philanthropic

organizations. He is survived by his loving wife Emily of 66 years, his three children, Larry

(deceased), Linda, Rick, and four grandchildren, Darcie, Devin, Amy, Todd,

and three great grandchildren.

Service will be held at Pacific View Chapel on Tuesday June 24th at 2:30 PM.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to USC and Hoag Hospital.