Richard Crouch

Tell us a bit about yourself and what you like to do in your free time. I love the outdoors and all things nature, especially being on the water. I love to fish, scuba dive, paddleboard, hunt and play golf. In the summer, you can find me at the lake, fishing usually, or doing something water related. I love a night in or a night out on the town, I love to have fun and just be spontaneous and go with the flow of life. I am very outgoing and adventurous. I love hitting a trail and going off-roading in the Jeep. I enjoy spending time with my girls and taking them to do things. I love karaoke, concerts and all styles of music. I enjoy going to the gym, even though I need to go more. LOL. I’m also a member of the ELKS and attend One Church Joplin.

What do you look for in a partner? Looks are important; there definitely has to be that physical attraction. However, personality is also a huge thing to me. Someone who can make me laugh and just smile is also very important to me.

What are your dealbreakers? Personality is huge to me and being real/genuine, just being you and who you are from day one. So, with that said, fake people, dishonesty and cheating.

Occupation: Executive Baker at Finn’s Bakery and Restaurant • Joplin, MO • Age: 59

They must be self-reliant and secure. No time for jealousy or fighting, and I would prefer they have grown children and not little ones. They must have a love for animals and kindness toward humanity.

What are your dealbreakers?

Dealbreakers are not having a job or a plan for the future, unless you are retired. Another dealbreaker is a bunch of ex-wives and small children.

What is your favorite love story, and why? My favorite love story in real life is of my great-grandfather, Weaver Duncan. (My grandparents) survived the early 1900s, the Great Depression, raising children in a small town, and they were still so very much in love. She mourned his death until her passing. As far as a movie that’s my favorite love story: “What Dreams May Come.”

What does your dream first date look like? My dream date would start with flowers and then a day trip to a new location I’ve never visited. Possibly a cultural event, music or just exploring new sites.

For what in your life do you feel the most grateful? I am grateful for my children, my grandchildren and my group of close friends who have always made me feel like sisters. I’m always so very grateful for that. I am blessed to have a career I love doing. Every day is a new day, and I bring joy to people. What more could you ask for?

Occupation: Regional Medical Sales Manager for the Midwest and West Coast and Former First Responder with Newton County Search and Rescue/Dive Team • Joplin, MO • Age: 41

When did you last sing to yourself or someone else? All the time! Music for me is therapeutic. Chances are, if you see me driving down the road and at a stoplight, my very own jam session is taking place.

For what in your life do you feel the most grateful? My daughters, friends and family. I enjoy watching Lacie and Lindsey, my two teenage daughters, compete in their sports/ activities. Family, though, just isn’t blood. I have some very close friends I consider family and would do anything for.

What is your favorite love story and why? It would have to be Johnny and June. To some people, they would say Johnny and June were toxic and there was bad in the relationship, and there was, but at the end of the day, they loved each other, they stood by each other and got through all of life’s challenges thrown their way together. They had every reason to give up, but they didn’t. When Johnny was once asked what his definition of paradise was, he responded, “This morning, with her, having coffee.” I mean, who doesn’t want a relationship like that?

If you could learn one skill or ability perfectly, what would it be, and why? I love the outdoors and nature, so I would have to say perfect my golf game or hunting/fishing capabilities. I mean, who doesn’t want to get paid to do the things they love the most and just enjoy life?