Ronald Lee Barnhart

Ronald Lee Barnhart of Newark, OH died peacefully in his sleep on Friday, April 7, 2023.  Ronald, known by many as Barney, was born March 10, 1935 in Pomeroy, OH.  He is the son of William Dale and Elsie Mae Barnhart.  Leaving this world before him was his wife of 61 years, Zoe Ann (Lawson) Barnhart and his son, Gregory Angel and grandson Chad Angel.

Surviving and left to cherish so many precious memories are his daughters Cathi (Hugh) Lucas of Newark, OH, Leah Harper of Worthington, OH and sons Dale (Kathleen) Barnhart of Columbus, OH and Kenneth (Rosemary) Barnhart of Seminole, FL.  Also left behind and dear to his heart are 16 grandchildren and 25 great-grandchildren. 

Ronald served in the U.S. Air Force and was a retired firefighter with the Columbus Division of Fire.  Additionally, he owned Barney’s Cycle and Marina in Hide-Away-Hills, Ohio.  Ronald is known for the love of his many pets, wildlife, history, Nascar and motorcycle racing.  He had his pilot’s license and enjoyed studying the history of flight.  All of this led to his dream flight of piloting a WWII B29 Bomber over Southeast Ohio. He spent many weekends with his children going to air shows and motocross races. 

Ronald was blessed by the pastoral care of Spring Hills Baptist Church.  Following cremation, the family will be having a private memorial service and burial in Burlingham, OH where he will be interred in the Burlingham Cemetery.  Pastor Jeff Smith will be the officiant at Ronald’s Celebration of Life.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions to his favorite charities:  stjude.org, samaritanspurse.org, or aspca.org.