John Jude Barnhart

John J. Barnhart, age 70 of Akron, entered peacefully into heaven on Friday, July 2, 2021 surrounded by his loving family. He was welcomed by his parents Orland & Madeline (Sumser); brothers Bernard & Floyd; sister Delores Barnhart; and mother-in-law Mary Lou Bheam. John was diagnosed with late-stage ALS in May 2021, and he gracefully & bravely accepted it, a testament to his faith and fortitude.

John was born August 22, 1950 in Massillon, OH where he spent most of his life meeting many great friends. John attended St. Mary in Massillon, where he was an altar boy and then Canton Central Catholic where he participated in numerous sports, lettering in football and graduating in 1969. He was a 3rd degree Knight of Columbus, Council 14255. John worked as a welder at MRM Ecodyne, welding instructor at Jackson High School, self-employed as a handyman, and Heartland Behavioral Healthcare Hospital as a maintenance repair worker, retiring in 2014.

John loved spending time with family, playing golf, watching and going to sporting events. He especially enjoyed watching his grandson's football and baseball games, coaching his kids, and supporting his nieces' many events. John had a beautiful mind for fixing anything, problem solving, and he always enjoyed helping others with a project. He was always grateful for the trade skills his late father-in-law, Jean Farrell taught him.

John, "Mr. Wonderful," is survived by the love of his life & wife of 16 years, Kathy (Bheam) Barnhart; daughter Allison (Darcy Huffman) Barnhart; son Ryan; grandson Landon; sisters Rosemary Matako & Rita (Jim) Brady; brother Charles "Chuck"; sisters-in-law Bonnie & Lisa Barnhart; father-in-law Jack Bheam; sister-in-law Bonnie (Mark) Williams; brother-in-law Jack Bheam; nieces Carli Williams (Tiziano Celli), Rachel Williams (Craig Fanto); and many other beloved nieces and nephews. His family will miss his kind heart, smile, and sense of humor that would lighten a room.

Special thanks to University Hospital Cleveland and the Neuro-ICU team; and to Select Specialty in Akron, especially Sanah, Kathy, Ian, Anna, Nicole, and all the nurses, doctors and staff for their kindness and compassion.

Calling hours will be Sunday, July 11 from 2-4PM at the Anthony Funeral Home, Kucko-Anthony-Kertesz Chapel. 1990 S Main St in Akron. Per John's request, anyone attending calling hours, please wear Ohio State, Browns, Indians, or Cavs attire. Funeral services will begin 10:30AM on Monday, July 12 at the funeral home with prayers, followed by Mass of Christian Burial at St. Sebastian Church, 476 Mull Ave in Akron. Interment at Holy Cross Cemetery in Akron. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the ALS Association, https://www.als.org/donate .

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