James M. Barnhart

81, of Van Wert, died at 5:40 a.m. Friday, February 27, 2009 at Vancrest Health Care Center in Van Wert.

He was born March 1, 1927, in Cadiz, the son of the late George and Jessie (Blake) Barnhart. On August 11, 1956, he married Anne M. (Graham) Barnhart, who survives in Van Wert.

Mr. Barnhart retired from the U.S. Army as a staff sergeant after 20 years of service, including serving in World War II and the Korean Conflict. He was a member of Wesley United Methodist Church in Van Wert, was a member and past governor of Loyal Order of Moose Lodge 1320 in Van Wert, the Legion of the Moose, a life member of both American Legion Post 178 and Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 5803, both in Van Wert, and the 40 et 8 of Van Wert.

In addition to his wife, survivors include three children, Robert James (Elaine) Barnhart of Ozark, Mo., Carol (Gary) Sutton of Van Wert and Jim (Pam) Barnhart of Middle Point; a brother, Lloyd (Paula) Barnhart of Fort Wayne, Ind.; nine grandchildren; seven stepgrandchildren; five great-grandchildren; and a stepgreat-grandchild.

A son, Steve Barnhart; four brothers; and a sister, also preceded him in death.

Funeral services will be conducted at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, March 5, at Brickner Funeral Home in Van Wert, with the Rev. Paul W. Miller officiating. Burial will be in Woodland Cemetery in Van Wert, with graveside military rites performed by the combined honors unit Legion Post 178 and VFW Post 5803.

The family will receive friends from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. Wednesday, March 4, at the funeral home, where a 40 et 8 service to be held at 8 that evening.

Memorial contributions: American Heart Association or a charity of donor's choice.