of Little Rock, AR

April 13, 1940 - March 26, 2020

Mr. Richard Gunnar Barlund, son of the late Eva and Gunnar Barlund, was born April 13, 1940, in New Rochelle, New York. His parents immigrated to the United States in the late '30s. She was a nurse from Sweden, and he was a prizefighter from Helsinki, Finland, who held the title of 1936 European Heavyweight champion.

Dick Barlund was an accomplished athlete during his school years. He enjoyed playing for the University of Maryland Terrapins as a lineman and tight end. He was drafted by the St. Louis Cardinals, but an injury prevented that fulfillment. He graduated from Maryland with a degree in Logistics and Transportation. Dick married Sarah Lynne Smith (Sally) and embarked on a 38 career with ALCOA, which caused moves to Pittsburgh, New York, Wales, Texas, and eventually Little Rock, where they have lived for the past 41 years.

As a result of his generous spirit and lively personality, he was loved by many. His influence will forever remain in the lives of all who knew him. He quietly departed this life on Thursday, March 26, at Arkansas Hospice in Little Rock, Arkansas.

In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his sister, Inger Maier (Frank), former son-in-law, Chuck Cummings, and sister-in-law, Barbara Jewett (Joseph).

He is survived by Sally, his wife of 57 years; his son Eric (Kari) and daughter, Kristin Hackworth (Tony); his grandchildren, Gunnar Barlund, Haley Barlund, and Zach Cummings; brother-in-law, Charles T Smith Jr. (Betty); nieces Jean Casner (Stephen), Lisa Scoutelas (Richard), Susan Kolesar (Paul), Jennifer Smith (Brian Brown), Samantha Talbot (Bob), Shana Heathington (Hogan), and nephews, Charles T Smith III (Dina), and Jonathan Kolesar.

Memorials may be made to Arkansas Hospice. The family wishes to express their deep appreciation to Dr. Diane Wilder, Dr. Gautam Gandhi, Dr. Mary Searcy, and Dr. Barry Ford for their concern and care of Dick.

In light of the ongoing public health concerns and in compliance with the current CDC guidelines, the family has decided to delay services until a later time.

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