5-26-2023 4:35pm

Parks Director Fredrick Barkley Transformed Washtenaw County

STN Staff

Fred Barkley

From WCPARC

It is with profound sadness that the Washtenaw County Parks and Recreation Commission (WCPARC) announces the passing of former Parks Director, Fredrick L. Barkley, on Tuesday, May 23, 2023, at his home, surrounded by his family. He was 87 years old.

Mr. Barkley, recognized as a visionary in the field of parks and recreation, led WCPARC from 1985 – 2001. He was an incredibly impactful leader for WCPARC during his 16-year tenure. Under Fred’s leadership, Washtenaw County Parks opened many of the iconic facilities which are enjoyed today by thousands of individuals and families. He managed a rapidly growing park system in the late 80’s and throughout the 90’s. Key development projects under his leadership include the construction of Rolling Hills Water Park in Ypsilanti Township, the Meri Lou Murray Recreation Center in Ann Arbor, Pierce Lake Golf Course in Chelsea, and Sharon Mills County Park in Manchester.

Many staff and colleagues have been reflecting on his commitment and leadership at WCPARC including current WCPARC Director Coy Vaughn and WCPARC Commissioner Robert Marans who worked closely with Fred during his tenure.

“Fred’s passion for public service and his vision made our County Park system what it is today. He will be missed by many. On behalf of Washtenaw County Parks, we extend our deepest, heartfelt condolences to his wife, Judith, and their entire family.” Coy Vaughn

“Fred Barkley became director of Washtenaw County Parks after a tumultuous period in our history. For more than a decade, he led WCPARC in building a foundation for a park system that has become one of the best in Michigan He was a committed and effective leader, a gentleman, and a pleasure to work with. I shall truly miss him.” Robert Marans

Key accomplishments under Fred Barkley’s leadership

Parks and Recreation Plan updated and adopted, 1985
Meri Lou Murray Recreation Center opens, 1991
Rolling Hills Water Park opens, 1991
Land for Pierce Lake Golf Course purchased (232 acres), 1994
Interpretive programs for Parker Mill initiated, 1996
Pierce Lake Golf Course opens, 1997
Parks and Recreation Plan updated and adopted, 1998
Greenways Advisory Committee established, 1998
Land for Sharon Mills County Park is purchased, 1999
WCPARC Administrative Building at 2230 Platt Road in Ann Arbor, 1999
Restoration of Sharon Mills initiated, 2000

WCPARC purchases 130 acres of environmentally sensitive land to expand Park Lyndon (assisted by MDNR grant), 2001
Pierce Lake Golf Course clubhouse expanded, renamed the “Frederick L. Barkley Golf Center” 2002
Staebler Farm and Heidt property in Superior Township purchased (98 acres), 2001
Spray Zone and 2 miles of multiuse trails constructed at Independence Lake County Park, 2001
WCPARC receives $200,000 grant from the Community Foundation for Southeastern Michigan to build the first segment of the Border to Border trail, 2001
Fred Barkley retires after 15 years as Director; Robert Tetens selected as new Director, 2001

Mr. Barkley’s obituary can be found here: https://www.colefuneralchapel.com/index.php/obituaries/1292-frederick-lee-barkley