Richard (Dick) Wesley Barrow

Richard (Dick) Wesley Barrow, 92, of Indianapolis, passed away peacefully on Saturday, January 24, 2026. He was born in Connersville, Indiana, on October 14, 1933, to the late Milton Leonard Barrow and Hazel Florence (Carr) Barrow. Richard was preceded in death by his devoted wife and lifelong companion, Virginia Louise (Williams) Barrow.

A proud veteran, Dick served his country with integrity and bravery in the United States Army, embodying the values of duty, honor, and service that would define his life’s journey. Dick earned his bachelor’s degree from Indiana State Teachers College in 1955 and his master’s from Miami University (Ohio). He taught junior high and high school shop (including machine, wood, printing, electrical, automotive and drafting) classes in Indiana and New York. After completing his doctorate in education at Texas A&M University, Dick relocated the family to Terre Haute, Indiana where he was a professor and department chair at Indiana State University School of Technology for 26 years. He was honored with the prestigious Caleb Mills Distinguished Teaching Award, a testament to his passion for teaching and his profound impact on students and colleagues alike.

Dick was a man of exceptional skill and craftsmanship. He held a deep love for automobile repair, wood restoration, and metalwork, and was known as someone who could “fix anything.” His expertise extended from mechanical work to auto collision repair, painting, and more. Earlier in life, he also served as an auctioneer from 1955–1968, engaging his community with his unmistakable voice and presence.

Above all, Dick lived life with honor, dignity, and a steadfast devotion to his family. He found great joy in his role as a husband, father, brother, grandfather, and great-grandfather, and he treasured every moment spent with those he loved. His generation, often called the Greatest Generation, set a standard of resilience, humility, and quiet strength that will continue to inspire those who follow him. His legacy will live on for generations.

Dick is survived by his loving children, Michael W. Barrow, MD (Sandra) of Dayton, Ohio, and Linda Barrow Rosen (Michael) of Richardson, Texas; and by his sister, Maralu Gregg of Ft. Myers, Florida. He leaves a cherished legacy through his grandchildren—Elizabeth Peacock, MD (Shane) of Selma, Indiana; Catherine Rarick (Brad) of Englewood, Ohio; Nathaniel Rosen of Richardson, Texas; Kevin Rosen (Ashley Woller) of Kirkland, Washington; and Jeffrey Rosen (Erin) of Phoenix, Arizona. Richard was also blessed with great-grandchildren J. Clark Peacock, J. Wesley Peacock, J. Gabriel Peacock, Harvey L. Rarick, and Carson M. Rarick, all of whom brought him immense joy.

Funeral service will be held Friday, January 30, 2026, at 4:30 pm at Hoosier Village Chapel, 9787 Hoosier Village Drive, Indianapolis, Indiana. Visitation, fellowship and reception will follow. Memorial contributions may be made to Indiana State University - College of Technology, BHI Foundation Scholarship Fund, Hospice, or to a charity of one's choice.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Flanner Buchanan – Washington Park North.