Obituary of Donald J. Barnhart

Donald J. “Don” Barnhart, age 85 of rural West Branch died suddenly Tuesday, April 27, 2021 from an accident on his farm. Funeral services will be held at 2pm Sunday, May 2, 2021, at the Springdale United Methodist Church where there will be a time of visitation one hour prior to the services. Burial will be at the Friends Cemetery just north of Springdale. In lieu of flowers memorials donations can be made in Don’s memory to Springdale United Methodist Church. To share a thought, memory or condolence with his family please visit the funeral home website @ www.gayandciha.com. Donald John Barnhart was born May 17, 1935, in Iowa City the son of James Curtis and Ethel (Fielman) Barnhart. Following graduation from Springdale High School with the Class of 1953, he enlisted in the United States Army serving during the Korean Conflict. He returned to this area and met his future wife, Ardis Ellen Shupitar at the Swisher Ballroom. Not only did they marry, they continued to dance for most of their 57 years of marriage! Don was raised on the farm and took his last breath on the farm, and truly loved every moment in between on their beloved farmstead. He and Ardis farmed together, raised their two children together, gardened together, tenderly cared for or “herded” the cats together, and truly cherishing their neighbors and lovingly supporting their dear friends for so many years. Don always had time to chat, to help another soul, care for any four legged creatures, support his children in their youth but also as adults in their lives. A lifelong member of the Springdale United Methodist Church, he understood that his faith, family and farming was all because of his Lord. His family includes his two children, Jill Barnhart and Clint Barnhart, many kittens and cats, and the newest addition to the family his grandpuppy, Segan. Don was preceded in death by his parents, wife, Ardis; and three brothers, Ivan, Harold and James.