Richard William Bartlett Sr., a true Marbleheader, passed away peacefully on February 15, 2020 at the age of 88. Richard is missed by his children, Dawn Elizabeth Collins and her husband Brendan of Silver Spring, MD and their children Katie, Daniel and Ciara Collins;  Richard "Barkie" William Bartlett Jr and his partner Gitte Neumann of Marblehead, MA; and Julie Riley of Readfield, ME and her children Bryan and Julia Riley. He is also survived by his ex-wife and friend, Donna Callahan Bartlett.

Dick was born at the Mary Alley Hospital, the son of Howard Bartlett and Elsie Knight Bartlett.  He graduated from Marblehead High School in 1949.  After attending Cushing Academy, he graduated from Colby College where he lettered in football and basketball, and was active in their theater productions.  Following graduation, he did a stint in the U.S. Army which enabled him to travel extensively throughout Europe.  He worked for Jordan Marsh for over 25 years.

Dick was active in the Marblehead Little Theater appearing in many of their productions including Guys and Dolls and A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum.  He had a starring role in You're a Good Man Charlie Brown.  He also appeared in many Junior Aid musical productions.  Dick was a natural on the stage with a graceful tenor and a charismatic presence.

Dick loved spending time on his boat, the Vagabond, and swimming off of Browns Island.  At the age of 82, Dick fulfilled a life-long dream and published a murder mystery novel titled Someone wants you Dead .  His writing was inspired and encouraged by his college roommate and fraternity brother, Robert B. Parker.  The two were both English majors and good friends at Colby College.  Dick was a Red Sox fanatic and a classic film enthusiast.  Throughout his life he remained in good health by running various road races, lifting weights and swimming in the waters around Marblehead.  He delighted in spending time with his children and grandchildren, taking daily walks around Red's Pond and attending Broadway musicals.

Everyone who ever met Dick felt lucky to have made a great new friend.  He had a gentle and warm way about him that will be sorely missed.

Services are private and are being handled by the Murphy Funeral Home, located at 85 Federal Street, Salem MA. For more information or online guestbook please call 978-744-0497 or visit www.murphyfuneralhome.com .