Richard "Dick" Barch proudly mentions the countries in which he's hunted and fished the same way people name the states they've visited. Although he has pursued various quarry in dozens of exotic places around the world, including Cape buffalo in Tanzania, mountain goats in Iran, and wild boars in Russia, Dick hasn't lost his passion for duck hunting, which remains one of his favorite activities.

"I like the mystery of the marshes," he says. "I like paying attention and still being surprised when ducks fly in from a distance."

Dick is also passionate about conserving the outdoors. His desire to improve habitat is what drives his philanthropic support for conservation organizations such as Ducks Unlimited. He and his wife, Theresa, are DU Diamond Life Sponsors, President's Council members, and Diamond Feather Society members. Through their estate gift, the couple has committed $1 million to DU to keep the outdoors accessible for future generations.

"I like to see the outdoor traditions carried on," Dick explains. "I want to protect them. I'm on the side of the game."

Dick's personal history is as impressive as his travels. He is a graduate of the University of Oklahoma and the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania. He served in the U.S. Army and with the British 17/21 Lancers. In 1968, he founded the highly successful marketing and finance firm Stauder, Barch & Associates in Ann Arbor, Michigan. He recently sold the company after serving as its president for nearly 50 years.