Rick Barton passed away peacefully in his sleep Sunday, September 2, 2018, at home. He courageously fought cancer for the past two years, never losing his spirit or faith. Rick was born May 9, 1956 in Oklahoma City, OK.
His family moved around a lot due to his father’s career in the oil industry. When the family moved to Huntington Beach, CA. at 14yrs old, he started surfing and it became a lifelong passion.
He attended Fountain Valley High School where a girl named Carolyn Cole caught his eye, but it wasn’t until after he graduated in 1974 that he was introduced to her by his best friend. They arranged a blind date to play tennis and so their love story began. Rick and Carolyn were married in June 1978.
Rick attended Golden West Jr College and later transferred to the University of Southern California. He enjoyed life as a Trojan and was President of the Sigma Phi Delta Fraternity. Rick graduated in June 1978 with a degree in Petroleum Engineering.
He received 13 job offers upon graduation and accepted a job as a Petroleum Engineer with Shell Oil Company (later Aera Energy), in Ventura California. He had a successful career that lasted 35 years, including 7 transfers; Long Beach, Bakersfield, Houston, New Orleans and many in between. Rick enjoyed his work and looked forward to every challenge.
Rick’s most rewarding role was that of a husband and father to their four children. He took this role very seriously. His kids would say he was tough, but are so thankful now that he was.
He taught his children the importance of being good stewards with finances, honesty, integrity and later in life was more open and shared his love and relationship with the Lord. Rick’s grandchildren brought him the most joy, wanting to impress upon them how much God loves them. Rick leaves a lasting legacy of kindness, integrity and hope.
Rick is survived by wife, Carolyn Cole Barton of Shell Beach, CA; Parents, William Clyde Barton and Doris Barton of Fullerton, CA; Sister, Debbie Sanchez of Santa Ana, CA; Brother, Charles Barton of Mission Viejo, CA; Children, Mat and wife Jessica Barton of Portland, OR, Andrew and wife Jennifer Barton of Nipomo, Dan and wife Jennae Barton Nipomo, Joey and Laura Barton Jolliff, Bakersfield; Grandchildren: Theo, Braylin, Troy, Tyler, Leighton, Lauren, Ellie and Caroline. The family thanks so many for their support during Rick’s battle with Brain Cancer (Glioblastoma); Grace Bible Church, Cedar’s Sinai Medical Center, Family Home Care and Wilshire Hospice. In lieu of flowers please make donations to the Billy Graham Rapid Response Team at: protect-us.
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