Richard A. Baack of Willow Park, Texas passed away on Wednesday, July 22, 2026, at the age of 77. He was born on June 8, 1949, in Pipestone, Minnesota, and lived a life defined by ingenuity, determination, and an unwavering dedication to his family and his work. On October 21, 1972, Richard married the love of his life, Ruth Eileen Briggs. Together they shared more than 53 years of marriage, building a life filled with love, faithfulness, and the joy of raising their family.

Richard was the proud father of four sons: Erick, Richard, Christopher, and Steven. His greatest title, however, was simply "Grandpa." He treasured the time he spent with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren and was happiest when surrounded by family.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Ruth Eileen Baack; three sons: Erick J. Briggs, Richard K. Baack, and Christopher D. Baack; eight grandchildren: Gary L. Southern, Christopher D. Baack Jr., Jacob A. Baack, Joseph M. Briggs, Sydney C. Briggs, Samantha E. Baack, Jessica L. Baack, and Makayla N. Baack; and five great-grandchildren: Asher R. Southern, Andi J. Southern, Sophia B. Baack, Mackenzie R. Baack, and Addylnn G. Baack. Richard was preceded in death by one son, Steven A. Baack.

Richard earned a Bachelor's Degree in Engineering, a fitting foundation for a man whose mind was always creating, improving, and inventing. For more than 50 years, he devoted himself to the oil and gas industry as a self-employed oil field recorder, traveling throughout West Texas installing, servicing, and repairing oil field equipment. His passion for his work led him to design, build, and patent his own oil field recording system, along with several other electronic inventions. His innovative spirit and technical expertise earned him the respect of countless colleagues throughout the industry. Richard was also a beloved member of the Willow Park community where he served as Mayor in the 1980's.

Those who knew Richard often joked that "work was his hobby, and his hobby was working." It wasn't far from the truth. He genuinely loved solving problems, building new things, and finding better ways to make something work. He was endlessly curious, often taking machines and electronics apart simply to understand how they worked—then putting them back together in a way he believed was even better.

Richard never hesitated when someone needed help. Whether it was repairing equipment, troubleshooting a difficult problem, or teaching someone a new skill, he always made time for others. He possessed a remarkable gift for teaching, patiently slowing down to explain how something worked or walking someone through the process until they understood. His knowledge was extensive, but it was his willingness to share it that left the greatest impression.

When he wasn't tinkering in his workshop or traveling the backroads of West Texas, Richard enjoyed settling in with a cheesy action movie and a bowl of the cheapest popcorn he could find. It was a simple pleasure that perfectly reflected his humble nature.

A memorial service honoring Richard's life will be held at 2:30 pm, Thursday, July 30, 2026, at Dallas-Fort Worth National Cemetery, Lane 3.