Richard Gail "Rick" Phares, age 57, of Garnett, Kansas, passed away on Thursday, January 26, 2012, at Anderson County Long Term Care in Garnett, Kansas. He was born on September 16, 1954, at the Anderson County Hospital in Garnett, Kansas, the fourth son of Harold A. and Olive (Newcomb) Phares. Rick was one of "God's Special Angels", as he was born with Down's syndrome and lived with his parents until residing at Tri-Ko Residential Housing in Osawatomie, Kansas in the later years of his life. He was well known at Tri-Ko, working in the workshop many years and making many friends with clients and staff. His love of music and dancing prevailed throughout his life. He competed in several Special Olympics events with teammates, which was a great joy for him. Rick was preceded in death by his parents, Harold and Olive Phares; brother Phillip and wife Beverly Phares; brother Jack Phares; and nephew Stanton Phares. Richard is survived by his brother, Paul Phares and wife Jo Ella of Garnett; sister-in-law Judy Phares of Phoenix, Arizona; and many nieces and nephews. Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, January 28, 2012, at Holy Angels Catholic Church in Garnett, Kansas. Burial will follow in the Holy Angels Cemetery in Garnett. After burial, the family will meet with friends and family at the Phares residence, 240 W. 3rd Street in Garnett. Memorial contributions may be made to Tri-Ko Inc., or Holy Angels Building Fund, or the Charity of your choice, and left in care of the funeral home.