Barry Gene Rich, 64 of Brady, passed away on Aug. 11, 2026, at Great Plains Health after a brief but intense battle with cancer. Barry was born on Jan 7, 1962, in Gothenburg, to parents Allen and Karen (Elander) Rich.
Barry attended school at Wild Horse Valley and Brady Public Schools where he graduated in 1980. He married Carol (Fattig) Rich in August of 1980, and to this union two children were born, Brandon and Katie.
Barry enjoyed playing mud and sand volleyball with his wife and friends. He worked on his parents' farm and then Larry Kracman Fertilizer in the early years until he and his wife started their own farm and ranch as he always dreamed. If Barry wasn't doing something around the farm, or hauling hay, he could often be found lending a hand to a neighbor or friend.
Later Barry was fortunate enough to help Mark Oberg with harvest and corn hauling until his retirement this past year. Barry was a wealth of farm and ranch knowledge and often a trusted advisor. He also knew what everyone in the area drove and their family trees. Barry enjoyed playing 10-point call your partner pitch with Bruce, Ann, Carol, and Katie. He was also a wonderful storyteller and enjoyed a good visit. Barry also learned from his grandpa to always eat dessert first so you always had room. Barry was preceded in death by his parents.
Barry is survived by his wife of 45 years, Carol Rich; son, Brandon Rich and grandkids Emmett and Avery Rich, and daughter Katie Rich, all of Brady; sister, Libby Franzen and family of Gothenburg; brother-in-law, Bruce (Ann) Fattig of Kearney; and many other in-laws, nieces, nephews, and countless close friends. Barry was a cherished husband, dad, grandpa, and friend whose absence is already very sorely felt.
Memorials may be made to the family for later designation. A celebration of life will be held from 4-8 p.m. at the Brady Community Center on Sept. 12. Online condolences can be made at www.blasestrauser.com.
Funeral arrangements were trusted to Blase-Strauser Memorial Chapel & Monuments of Gothenburg.