Jim A. Barton

Jim Barton, age 79 of Middleville, Michigan, passed away December 16, 2010 with his wife by his side. \r
He was born August 25, 1931 in Millersburg, Ohio. \r
Jim spent all of his life driving truck for various trucking companies, two of which were Diamond Machinery and Road and Rail. In his retirement years, he repaired wheel horse tractors. Jim honorably served in the Korean War from 1949 to 1952, with the 72nd Tank Battalion.\r
Jim married Karen Needham on July 4, 1992. He was an avid train collector and spent many hours working outdoors on a train set he had for a number of years. Jim was recognized by the city of Middleville for his dedication to displaying the American Flag outside his home. Most recently, Jim served with the honor guard of the American Legion Post 127, Dorr, Michigan. \r
He was preceded in death by his parents, son, Archie, brothers, Bill and Gordy and Step-daughter, Jodie.\r
Jim is survived by his wife, Karen of 18 years, children, Rusty (Judy), Patty (Brian), Anita (Dick), Dennie, Kate (Rich), Terry, Jerry, several grandchildren and great grandchildren, sister, Lillian, sister-in-law, Greta and many nieces and nephews. \r
Visitation will be held, Monday December 20, 2010 from 2-4 pm and 6-8 pm at the Girrbach Funeral Home in Hastings. \r
Funeral services will be held Tuesday, December 21, 2010 at 10:00 am at Girrbach Funeral Home with Chaplain Louie Koster officiating. Internment will be at Brush Ridge Cemetery with full military honors, provided by the Dorr American Legion Post 127. \r
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to American Legion Post 127, Dorr, Michigan. \r
The family wishes to give special thanks to Dr. Paul DeWitt, Pennock Hospital, Spectrum Hospital and the Dorr American Legion Post 127. \r
Arrangements are by the Girrbach Funeral Home in Hastings. Please visit our website to leave a message or memory to the family. (girrbachfuneralhome.net). \r