Brothers,

It is with a heavy heart that I share that Dick “Bulldog” Barley has passed into Chapter Eternal. Though not a Delta Eta initiate, Bulldog adopted us as his own from our founding in 1956 and never let go. He poured his heart into this chapter for nearly 70 years, all the while guiding, mentoring, and loving every generation that came through.

His beloved wife Evelyn shared the news this week, along with his words from just a few years ago:

“I’ve had a great life. Thanks to friends, family—and Sigma Chi—for contributing to my success. Much thanks to all.”

Join us to honor Bulldog:

Memorial Service: August 16, 2:00 p.m. at La Cañada Presbyterian Church
White Rose Ceremony: Details to follow
RSVP: Email rob@bruinsig.org

In celebration of Bulldog’s enduring legacy:

• The Bulldog Barley Chapter Room will be established in the renovated Delta Eta house.
  • Make a tax-deductible gift here: 
    • https://donatebruinsig.causevox.com/
• The Dick “Bulldog” Barley Scholarship is close to being endowed.
  • Make a tax-deductible gift here:
    • https://donate.sigmachi.org/bulldog

Bulldog joined Sigma Chi at Illinois Wesleyan in 1951. When he arrived in L.A. in 1957, we made him one of us, or maybe he made us who we are. For decades, he was our Chapter Advisor, Financial Advisor, mentor, and lifeline. He held countless leadership roles from local alumni chapters to the House Corporation and supported Delta Eta through its toughest years and proudest moments.

He once said, “It’s been my whole life. And I’m very proud of it.”

He once installed new hallway carpet, only for the chapter to destroy it with a Cinco de Mayo slip ’n slide. “I’ve never seen anyone so mad,” said then-Consul Preston Risser. But when asked about it years later, Bulldog just laughed. “I don’t remember it.”

We chanted his name at meetings. We drove him crazy. But we loved him, and he loved us back.

Born in humble roots, Bulldog became a star athlete, a U.S. Army veteran, a husband to Evelyn, a father to Karen and Kristen, and a grandfather. He worked long hours, built lifelong friendships, and stayed true to the values of Sigma Chi.

He received many honors such as the Order of Constantine, Grand Consul’s Citation, and the Bringham Best Award (twice), but never did it for the praise. He did it to make Sigma Chi better.

“This fraternity gave me everything,” he said. “And I’ve been very lucky. Very lucky.”

Brother Dick “Bulldog” Barley, your life gave new luster to the White Cross and to all of us.

We were lucky to have you in our lives, Bulldog. We’ll miss you.

All honor to his name