Richard L. 'Rich' Barriger

WATERSMEET, Mich. - Richard L. "Rich" Barriger, 59, passed away Thursday, Dec. 28, 2023.

Rich was born on March 26, 1964, in Walton, New York, the son of Raymond and Doris (Brown) Barriger Sr.

He married his life partner Amy Sorensenon March 3, 2010.

Rich, a long time Watersmeet resident, worked hard all his life to provide for his family. He was an employee of Nagel's Lumber Company for more than 20 years, staying on with them even after the mill closed down to help make sure that everything was taken care of. After Nagel's, he worked for Headwaters Polaris where he was employed until his passing. Rich also worked for Nordine's Plaza keeping the car wash running and taking care of everything that needed to be repaired.

Rich was loved by many for his willingness and ability to fix anything that anyone needed help with. He also had a love for the ATV experience. Most Friday and Saturdays you would find him with Amy by his side trail riding in their side-by-side UTV accompanied by close friends, and if he wasn't there he would be in his shop. Rich was also a volunteer fireman for the Watersmeet Fire Department where he was a first responder and assistant fire chief for many years.

Rich is survived by his wife, Amy Barriger; father, Raymond Barriger; daughter, Victoria Cecelia (Austin) of Wheaton, Illinois; and two bonus children acquired by love, Jacob Anys of Watersmeet and Megan Anys of Green Bay, Wisconsin; three grandchildren, Nathan Barriger-Moore, Mikinlee Braun and Melony Cecelia; and one great-grandson, Akay Anderson; siblings, Doris (Dan) Sherman, Guilford, New York, William (Rhonda) Barriger of Sidney, New York, Clifford (Tammy) Barriger of Sherburne, New York, Robert (Carol) Barriger of Sidney Center, New York, Railene Oakley of Sidney Center, New York, and Lilah (Josh) Houck of Unadilla, New York; and many nieces and nephews.

Rich was preceded in death by his mother, Doris; and brother, Raymond "Butch" Sr.

A memorial service for Rich was held Friday, Jan. 5, 2024, at the Watersmeet Community Center starting at 2 p.m.

Arrangements by Gaffney-Busha Funeral Home, Eagle River, Wisconsin. Online condolences may be expressed at gaffney-busha.com.