Richard Clarence Watrin, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully Sunday August 3rd 2025, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and adventure.

Born on June 16, 1938, in Sandstone, Minnesota, to Mary and Cliffard Watrin, Rich was the second of eight children. He grew up on the family's farm, Watrin Farms, where he learned the values of hard work, family, and a deep appreciation for the outdoors. He attended Dell Grove School and graduated from Sandstone High School in 1956.

After high school, Rich began his career installing phone lines before working for a time as a welder. It was during these early years that he met the love of his life, Janice Thomas. They were married in July 1959 and welcomed their first child, Michael, in 1960. Their family grew with the birth of daughter Kim in 1964 and was completed with the arrival of son Daniel in 1977.

In 1963, Rich followed his entrepreneurial spirit and became a licensed barber, opening his own shop in Sandstone. For 60 years, "Rich the Barber" was a local icon, not just for his skill with scissors but for the stories, laughter, and friendship shared in his chair. He officially retired in 2023, leaving behind a remarkable career and countless fond memories for his loyal clients and community.

Rich and Jan built a home in Sandstone in 1972, where they raised their children surrounded by the great outdoors. Camping, fishing, hunting, and road trips were cornerstones of family life, with Rich's love of nature deeply woven into his identity. Whether fine-tuning his marksmanship or chasing walleye in northern Minnesota and Canada, Rich's joy was always found in the woods and on the water.

In 2008, Rich fulfilled a lifelong dream when he and Jan built a cabin near Lake Winnibigoshish (Lake Winnie) in Bena, MN. There, they spent countless summers making memories and catching fish with family and friends.

Rich and Jan also shared a passion for travel, exploring the U.S. and the world together. From California to the Grand Canyon, from Hawaii to Australia and Alaska, they embraced adventure side by side. In later years, they enjoyed winters in Arizona in their fifth-wheel camper, adding even more memories to their incredible journey together.

Over the years, Rich's family grew to include 8 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren, all of whom lovingly called him "Papa." His booming laugh, quick wit, and love for storytelling were the heart of many family gatherings—especially at "Waumpus Swamp," the cherished hunting land where he spent time with his brothers, children, nephews, and grandchildren. Known affectionately as "King Richard" among the clan, his wisdom and warmth guided generations.

Rich will always be remembered as a devoted husband, an avid outdoorsman, and a pillar of his community. His life was full of passion, perseverance, and joy—told through the many trophies on his wall, the memories in his children's hearts, and the stories retold at family gatherings.

Rich is preceded in death by his parents, Cliff and Mary Watrin; his son, Michael; his siblings Cliff, George, and Elaine; sister-in-law Marie Watrin; and brothers-in-law George Haberman and Fritz Kuhlman.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 66 years, Jan Watrin of Pine City; daughter Kim (Dale) Dickey of Pine City; son Dan (Becky) Watrin of Sandstone; his 8 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren; siblings Marita Haberman, Dave (Alice) Watrin, Steve (Kathy) Watrin, and Joe (Kathy) Watrin; and many nieces, nephews, and dear friends.

Rich's presence, wisdom, and love will be deeply missed—but never forgotten. His was a life well lived and well loved.

A mass of Christian Burial will be held for Rich at 11am on Friday, August 8th, 2025, at St. Luke's Catholic Church with Father Kristopher McKusky officiating. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service at the church and from 5pm to 7pm on Thursday, August 7, 2025, at Methven Funeral Home chapel, with Rosary at 7pm. Burial will be at Spring Park Cemetery following the service on Friday.

Arrangements by Methven Funeral and Cremation Services of Sandstone, MN.