FoCP Cofounder, Barry Grossbach, has passed away at the age of 86.

Barry Grossbach during an interview in 2024

The Friends of Clark Park are sad to share that Barry Grossbach, one of The Friends’ cofounders, passed away on December 18^th, 2025. He was 86 years old. Barry was an invaluable member of the community who volunteered his time and donated his money to a variety of causes. Barry helped create the formation of University City District, served as a board member of Spruce Hill Community Association, and was a founding member of The Friends of Clark Park. He and his late husband, Mike Hardy, resided in Spruce Hill for over 50 years.

During his years with The Friends of Clark Park, Barry provided immense help to our organization by organizing efforts to improve Clark Park as much as possible. His early efforts laid a solid foundation for our organization to build upon and is the reason we are as strong as we are today.

Additionally, Barry generously contributed financially to the Friends of Clark Park. He donated 400,000 dollars of his own money to contribute to the Clark Park Plan and has provided funding to various organizations to improve greenery in the surrounding area. Barry also purchased property at the corner of 43^rd and Osage with the express purpose of turning into a community garden.

Community members like Barry are what make us – us. His legacy will be felt for decades through the incredible physical environment that he helped cultivate. Barry has been laid to rest at The Woodlands and will never be far from Clark Park. We will miss you, Barry. Thank you for everything you have done.