Albert Leroy Barnhart

CLOVERDALE - It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Albert Leroy Barnhart, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and cherished member of our community. He found his eternal peace on Tuesday, October 8, 2024, at the age of 90. Leroy continued to work daily on his farm until a recent tragic farming accident took him to the ultimate harvest of his life, his reward in Heaven.

Born on July 12, 1934, in Cloverdale, to the late Albert S. and Mary Margaret (Eagleson) Barnhart. On June 2, 1956, he married the love of his life LaVilla (McLaughlin) Barnhart, who preceded him in death on September 24, 2012. Leroy dedicated his life to the land he loved. As part of a multi-generation farm, he spent countless hours tending to his fields, nurturing crops, and fixing all the things without ever using an owner's manual. His work ethic was unmatched, equal only to his love and genuine concern for everyone he met.

Leroy was known for his gentle spirit and kind heart. He had a warm smile that could brighten anyone's day. He was known for his generosity, always ready to lend a helping hand to neighbors and friends. He was a lifelong member of St. Barbara's Catholic Church in Cloverdale, Ohio. Leroy donated his time lighting up the parish festival.  He was also a proud member of the UAW and retired from Ford Motor Company.

Leroy was a pillar of strength for his family, teaching them the value of hard work, perseverance, and compassion. His presence at family dinners, birthday parties (for all ages), school competitions, and everything in between was a highlight for all, especially his great grandkids.

Survivors include four children: Brenda (Jack) Beach of Cloverdale, Don (Marcia) Barnhart of Cloverdale, Rebecca (David) George of West Jefferson and Barb (Jeff) Bolenbaugh of Ft. Jennings; 11 grandchildren: Tim (Lindsey) Beach, Jeff (Amber) Beach, Kristin Barnhart, Justin Leroy (Melissa) Barnhart, Austin (Bethany) Barnhart, Willem George, Spencer George, Catherine (Jeremy) Schimmoller, Olivia (Craig Mell) Bennett, Rex Leroy Wilson, Brayden Bolenbaugh; 4 step-grandchildren: Amanda (Caleb) Waltz, Brittany (John) Raderstorf, Josh (Clarissa) Bolenbaugh and Seth (Lydia) Bolenbaugh; 16 great-grandchildren: Mason, Halle and Levi Beach, Penny Beach, Natalie, Lela, Rory and Leroy Barnhart, Evan, Isaac, Eli Leroy and Jonah Barnhart, Gage, Grayson, Bentley and Ellianna Bennett; 8 step great-grandchildren: Herschel, Clive, Luther and Mildred Waltz, Joseph, Elias and Callan Bolenbaugh, and Ivory Bolenbaugh; 2 siblings: Idelia Schaad of Harrod and Angela Duncan of Continental; and faithful companion, Rufus the dog.

He is preceded in death by seven siblings, Clarence Barnhart, Cecelia Dake, Frances Steele, Mildred Klink, Harold Barnhart, Ralph Barnhart, and Helen Barnhart.

Funeral mass will begin at 10:30 a.m., Monday October 14, 2024, at St. Barbara Catholic Church, Cloverdale with the Very Reverend George Mahas officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery.  Visitation will be from 2 to 8 pm Sunday at LOVE-HEITMEYER FUNERAL HOME, Jackson Twp and one hour prior to the mass Monday at the church. A rosary service will begin at 7:00 p.m. Sunday evening at the funeral home.

Memorial donations may be made to St. Barbara Catholic Church or the Humane Society of your choice. Leroy will be deeply missed but fondly remembered by all who knew him. His love for God, his family, his land, and his community will forever remain in our hearts.

Condolences may be expressed at www.lovefuneralhome.com

The Humane Society of Allen County
3606 Elida Rd, Lima OH 45807

St. Barbara Catholic Church
Cloverdale OH 45827