Charles Barton Jr.

After a life well lived, Charles ‘Chuck’ F. Barton, Jr. passed away on Saturday, August 24, 2024 in Kalamazoo with the love of his life Naomi Barton by his side. He was born January 15, 1934, to Charles and Josephine Barton. He had two sisters, JoAnn Vanderborgh and Catherine Peacock (now deceased). Chuck was blessed with two sons, Mike (Renko) Barton and Jon (Heather) Barton and two bonus sons, Rodney (Julie) Blaine and Eric (Paul Beasley) Blaine. His blessings continued with 9 grandchildren, 6 great grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. Chuck proudly served his country in the US Army.

A passionate educator, Chuck was a Social Studies and Physical Education teacher for Plainwell, White Cloud and Otsego Middle School for 33 years, retiring in 1993. He also enjoyed coaching and refereeing boys’ and girls’ sports. Chuck loved students of all ages as they did him. Chuck also set cemetery monuments for 50 years with his father and enjoyed selling RVs for several years. He was a member of MEA, NEA, Allegan Historical Society, Otsego Historical Society, American Legion and Lifetime member of the Otsego United Methodist Church. Chuck loved to play golf, shuffleboard and cards (especially euchre) and cribbage, as well as solve sudoku puzzles. He loved fishing year-round. He was also an avid reader. It was always fun with his quick wit and use of puns. Chuck could always bring a smile to your face. 

Cremation has taken place.

A Celebration of Life Memorial Service will be held Saturday, September 7, 2024, at 11:00 A.M. at the Otsego United Methodist Church. 

Burial of ashes will follow at Mountain Home Cemetery, Otsego. 

Contributions in memory of Chuck may be made to Christian Neighbors of Plainwell or Otsego Public School Foundation.

Messages of condolence may be posted at www.WinkelFuneralHome.com.