Barbara A. Rivard

Barbara Ann Rivard, 84 of Gaylord, passed away Tuesday, February 11, 2025, at Munson Healthcare Otsego Memorial Hospital. Born August 10, 1940, in Providence, Rhode Island, the daughter of Charles and Elizabeth (March) Burke. 

 Growing up in Rhode Island, Barbara would talk fondly about childhood memories of spending time with family swimming in Cape Cod. Barbara was an avid walker, putting in many miles at the Otsego County Sportsplex. She was proud to be one of the top three walkers. She loved listening to music, especially Elvis. She enjoyed gardening and spending time with her family. 

 She is survived by her husband of 50 years, Richard; her children, Loretta (Don) Gossett of Babbitt, MN, Robert Loucks of Mount Pleasant, Laura Crossley (Tony Dark) of Lansing, Edward Loucks of Gaylord, Betty Merlino of Roscommon, Ann Rivard of Gladwin, Christina (Larry) Flowers of Manton, and Robert Rivard of Gaylord; many loving grandchildren and great-grandchildren. 

 She was preceded in death by her parents; her son, David Loucks, Jr., her daughter, Deborah Vanorden; her sister, Virginia Smith; her brother, Robert Burke; and two great-grandchildren, Zoey and Joseph. 

 Funeral Services will take place 11:00 AM Saturday, February 15, 2025, at Gaylord Community Funeral Home & Cremation Service, where the family will visit with friends beginning at 10:00 AM. Burial will take place at Otsego Lake Township Cemetery in the spring. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the family c/o Betty Merlino at 850 N. Center Ave., Gaylord, MI, 49735.

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