Ethel Pauline Barnhart

Ethel Pauline “Becky” Barnhart, 89, of St. Joseph, died peacefully on December 10, 2006 at Caretel Inns of Royalton. A Graveside service will be conducted at 10:00A.M., Friday, December 15, 2006, at Riverview Cemetery. In lieu of flowers donations to Saron Lutheran Church would be welcome. Those wishing to send a condolence message or sign the guest book online may do so at www.starks-menchinger.com Arrangements have been entrusted to Kerley-Starks & Menchinger Family Funeral Home, St. Joseph. Becky was born in Chicago on February 11, 1917, the daughter of Simon and Anna Beckman of Niles Michigan. Upon graduation Becky was employed by The Simplicity in Niles Michigan. Becky met her future husband of 46 years, Kenneth Barnhart, while at Niles High School. They were married in a candlelight service on December 26, 1941. During the first two years of their marriage they lived in California and Texas while Kenneth was in training with the US Army. After his return from Europe in 1945 the couple moved to St Joseph, Michigan. Becky was an avid gardener, enjoyed reading, playing bridge and golf. Her family was her greatest joy. Her husband was an insurance agent and played saxophone with many local musicians throughout the twin cities. Often she would take the children to hear their dad early in the evening. Becky was preceded in death by her husband Kenneth. She is survived by her son Gary Barnhart of Ojai, California, daughter Coleen Krieger of St Joseph, and three grandchildren.