John Henry Barnharst

John Henry Barnharst, a loving husband, father, and friend, passed away peacefully on May 19, 2023, in Waterford, Wisconsin, surrounded by his loved ones. Born on February 26,1933, in the Town of Clifton, Wisconsin, John was 90 years old at the time

of his passing.

John’s memory will live on with his devoted wife, Carol Barnharst, and their three daughters, Toni Baalke of Loveland,Colorado, Lori (Steve) Knick of Kenosha, Wisconsin, and Julie Barnharst of Wind Lake, Wisconsin. As well as his grandchildren,

Bailey, Brandon, Isabella, and Aiden Knick.

John was proceeded in death by his parents, Henry and Helen Barnharst, siblings, and their spouses: Bill and Karen Barnharst, Mary and Emil Hincha, Allen and Mary Lou Barnharst, JoAnn and Barney Connor and Howard and Mary Barnharst.

A proud graduate of Tomah High School, John went on to serve his country in the United States Navy during the Korean War. After his time in the Navy, John joined the 440th National Guard in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and later transferred to the 128th

Refueling Group. Through his hard work and dedication, he earned a full-time position in the command post, eventually retiring after 30 years of service in the military.

John's life was filled with passions that brought him great joy. He was an avid deer hunter, a pastime that was evident by the deer head of "Ralph" prominently displayed in the family room. John was also a dedicated Green Bay Packers fan and season ticket holder, attending their Milwaukee and Green Bay games with enthusiasm and pride.

Music held a special place in John's heart, as he sang in the St. Clare's church choir for over 40 years. It was a heartbreaking moment for him when he could no longer stand to sing, but his family will always cherish the memories of his beautiful voice filling the church.

In November of 2017, John and his daughter, Lori, were gifted an Honor Flight to Washington, D.C. This trip was a highlight in John's life, as he had the opportunity to meet other veterans and visit the monuments that honored their service.

John's love for animals was well-known in the neighborhood, as the Barnharst house became a refuge for all stray cats. He would befriend them with treats and lots of love, and his family finds comfort in knowing that Taz, Booger, and Sam are now napping on John's lap once again.

John Henry Barnharst will be dearly missed by his family, friends, and all who knew him. His faith-filled spirit, dedication to his loved ones, and his commitment to serving his country will live on in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to share in his life.

The family would like to sincerely thank the staff at Waterford Memory Care and Hospice for their wonderful care of John this past year. In leu of flowers, donations can be made to The Alzheimer's Foundation of America.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Tuesday, June 6, 2023, at 10:00 am at St. Clare Catholic Church in Wind Lake, WI. Family and friends are invited to the visitation prior to mass starting at 9:00 am. John will be laid to rest with full miliary honors at the Southern Wisconsin Veterans Memorial Cemetery, Union Grove, WI following the mass and luncheon at the church.