Michael L. Barkley

Hardworking, stubborn, loving, and a family man are just a few ways to describe Michael Barkley.  A few historical events that occurred in 1951 include the first commercial computer, UNIVAC, was put to use at the U.S. Census Bureau, Dennis the Menace comic strip first appeared in U.S. newspapers, the term Rock N Roll was coined, and on March 22, 1951 Loren and Nova (Holt) Barkley welcomed the birth of Michael L. Barkley in Decatur, Indiana.

As a child Michael always wanted to be a conservation officer.  He loved the outdoors and also participated in 4-H.

Michael attended Norwell High School and was active in football and basketball, in addition to playing the trumpet, before he graduated with the Class of 1969. Michael worked as a driver for UPS Freight until his retirement. He also served in the Army National Guard in the 1970s.  He enjoyed golfing, traveling, and watching his grandchildren play sports, as well as watching old westerns and listening to traditional hymns from church.

Special times in Michael’s life were the day he bought his first semi -truck, the day each of his grandchildren were born, and going to Branson, Missouri to watch shows.

He met his future wife, Ellen 36 years ago at the Blue Flame LP gas shop in Columbia City, where he was a manager. Michael raised two sons on his own until meeting Ellen.

Always in the hearts of those who knew and loved him so well, Michael will never be forgotten.

Michael L. Barkley, 69, of Churubusco, passed away Wednesday, July 29, 2020 at Parkview Regional Medical Center.

Michael is survived by his wife of 36 years, Ellen Barkley of Churubusco; sons, Greg (Tammy) Barkley of Fort Wayne and Shane (Starr) Barkley of Columbia City; step-children, Susan (Condon) Bradbury of Roanoke, Lee Ann (Bob) Dunn, Theresa (Sam) Winebrenner and Terry (Melissa) Coulter all of Columbia City; 18 grandchildren; and 10 great-grandchildren; siblings, Donelle McMaster of Chattanooga, TN, Randy (Pam) Barkley of Ossian, Robin (Kevin) Lipp of Markle, Mark (Dixie) Barkley of Fort Wayne, Kristie (Dean) George of Markle.
He was preceded in death by his parents.

A gathering of family and friends will be 12 to 2 pm Tuesday, August 4, 2020 at DeMoney-Grimes Funeral Home, 600 Countryside Drive, Columbia City. With the current Executive Order, face masks are required for attendance. Funeral services will begin at 2 pm, with limited seating. The funeral service may also be watched live on Facebook through DeMoney Grimes Live.
Burial will take place in Union Township Cemetery. Memorial donations may be given in memory to Whitley County Humane Society.
Visit www.demoneygrimes.com  to send Michael's family online condolences or sign the online guest book.