Richard "Dick" Barrett

Richard "Dick" Barrett, a cherished member of the Wichita community and renowned owner of Richard’s Little Dairy Queen, passed away peacefully on February 17, 2026, at the age of 94 in Wichita, Kansas. Born on October 30, 1931, in Vermillion, Kansas, Richard led a life marked by dedication, service, and an unwavering commitment to his family and community.

Before becoming a beloved entrepreneur, Richard served proudly in the US Navy during the Korean War, achieving the rank of Chief Petty Officer. He often delighted in sharing stories from his military days with his family, providing them with treasured memories and valuable lessons. He also enjoyed sharing home videos of his military travels overseas. His children consistently reflected on his intelligence, describing him as the most knowledgeable person they ever knew. Richard went to Washburn University on the G.I. Bill and graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Biology, along with a minor in Mathematics.

After retiring from the Navy, Richard ventured into the business world by purchasing a Dairy Queen on Maple Street in Wichita, which he managed until the skating rink's construction in 1987. He then acquired what became "Richard's Little Dairy Queen" on Poplar Street, operating it from 1986 until 2022 when he retired at the age of 90. Throughout his years managing the Dairy Queen, Richard thoroughly enjoyed working with young employees, often checking their GPAs and involvement in extra-curricular activities as measures of their character. His commitment to the community was evident through numerous initiatives, including providing ice cream for local schools’ events and hosting an annual spring car show that featured music, cookouts, and free ice cream cones. At these events, he would proudly present trophies to well-deserving winners. Known affectionately as the "DQ man," his establishment garnered a reputation for having the best ice cream in town, attracting loyal patrons who would often go out of their way to visit. He was humble and would brush off any recognition or notoriety that came his way.

Richard's passions extended beyond entrepreneurship. An avid cyclist, he participated in numerous organized bike rides, including Bike Across Kansas in 1997 and again in 2011 at the age of 80, always alongside his daughter, Jill. He was also passionate about cars, boasting an impressive collection of antique and sport vehicles throughout his life. His contributions and spirit did not go unnoticed, as local news outlets honored him as a Wichita Icon and true Legend.

Despite his grumpy demeanor at times, Richard possessed a delightful sense of humor and enjoyed cooking. October was his favorite month, not just for his birthday but also for the joy of visiting craft fairs with his daughter and her friends, where he even donned a "girls’ weekend" shirt to join in the fun. He had a profound love for nature, often relishing the simple pleasure of sitting outside, listening to birds, and tending to his garden, where he proudly identified every type of tree he encountered.

Richard's life was further enriched by cherished moments spent at his cabin on Table Rock Lake, where he created lasting memories with family and friends. He had a natural instinct for making others happy, famously declaring that if an ice cream cone didn't have a curl on top, it was free. On several occasions, he treated family and employees on trips to Dairy Queen conventions to places like Hawai’i, San Diego, and Orlando. He enjoyed family reunions every July, and he would bring ice cream to share, ensuring that every gathering would be filled with laughter and delight. He would also tell his family when they came to visit to “bring a cooler”; he would make sure it was full of ice cream treats to enjoy at home.

He is survived by his devoted children: Jill (Shane) Paletta; Daniel Barrett; grandchildren, Nathan (Jessica) Soza, Wesley Barrett, Andrew Barrett, and Linzy Barrett; seven great-grandchildren; seven grand dogs; and niece, Dr. Kara (Tim) James. He was preceded in death by his father, Rollin Baldwin Barrett; mother, Mildred Grace (Hogle) Barrett; brother Loren Lee Barrett and ex-wife, Janet (Easum) Derby, with whom he maintained a warm friendship until her passing in August 2024.

A visitation will be held on February 26, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., followed by a funeral service at 11:00 a.m. at Parker-Price & Davidson, located at 245 NW Independence Ave, Topeka, Kansas, 66608. Burial is to take place at Grantville Cemetery in Grantville, Kansas. Richard Barrett’s legacy of kindness, generosity, and community service will be fondly remembered by all who had the privilege to know him.

Memorial contributions may be made to Helping Hands Humane Society 5720 SW 21st St, Topeka, KS 66604.

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