Obituary of Winfred Taylor Barkman

Winfred "Rick" Taylor Barkman, 59, of Columbia, South Carolina passed away September 20, 2015 at Palmetto Health Baptist Hospital, Columbia, South Carolina. He was born on January 2, 1956 in Riverhead, New York to the late Winfred and Della Mable Dawson Barkman. Rick was a kind and gentle soul. He was quiet and soft spoken, but his words spoke volumes. Rick was the epitome of a positive person. He never complained and never had a negative thing to say about those around him. He was generous to a fault. If you were in need, Rick would take care of you to the best of his ability. Rick was a true animal lover. He also enjoyed fishing and reading books by his favorite author, Zane Gray. Rick most loved his family. He enjoyed the times that they could gather and spend time together. He will be missed by those that loved him. Rick is survived by his beloved wife of 21 years, Liz Sowers Barkman; daughters, Ginger Coleman (Marty) and Vickie Brunson; grandchildren, Robbie Brunson and Jaynie Brunson; sisters, Shelia Kyle, Shirley Willis and Nancy Hein (Dave); and a brother, Wayne Barkman. He is also survived my many nieces, nephews and cousins. Rick is additionally survived by his sister in laws and brother in laws that were true family to him. Rick also leaves behind his beloved four legged child and constant companion, Gretchen. The family will hold a private memorial service at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Rick's name to Salvation Orphanage in Uganda, Africa, local address: 916 Howard Street, Columbia, SC 29205 or at www.gofundme.com/lillysheroes