Kenneth E. Clark

March 6, 1938 — March 22, 2024

Kenneth E. Clark of Columbus, OH passed away peacefully at home on March 22, 2024, from complications related to a broken hip sustained shortly after Thanksgiving. He was his good natured and stoic self to the end and rarely expressed any displeasure nor discomfort while in hospice care. Ken’s family was fortunate to be able to care for him at home during his last months.

Ken was born at home in New Hope, OH on March 6th, 1938. He graduated from Jackson High School in 1956. He earned certifications from Bailey Technical Auto Repair, St. Louis, MO and R.E.T.S. Electronic School, Dayton, OH. He served in the Ohio National Guard. He used his talent for auto-electric bench work to start and run Clark Armature Service in Middletown, Ohio for 27 years. He was well known and sought after for the niche work that he did and always had more business than he could keep up with. Ken was a gentle and kind man who frequently helped the kids in the Middletown neighborhood with everything from small jobs to “loans” for school clothes and prom dates. These qualities were equally extended to his friends, family and sometimes strangers in the small town of Eaton, Ohio where he built his life and raised his children. “Kenny” could always be relied upon to lend a helping hand when one was needed. His good nature, generosity, and kindness will be greatly missed.

He was preceded in death by his parents Forrest and Ida Clark, sister Marcella Bond, and brothers Robert and Donald Clark. Ken is survived by his wife of 56 years, Carol Kirkpatrick Clark, his two children Michelle (John) Coneglio and Michael (Jill) Clark, and his granddaughters Elise and Alice Coneglio.

Barry Leigh Bartelt

MAY 29, 1946 – NOVEMBER 4, 2023

Barry Leigh Bartelt, aged 77, passed away peacefully on Saturday, November 4, 2023, at Kobacker House. He was born on May 29, 1946, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, to the late Arland and Jeanne Bartelt. He is survived by his devoted wife, Joni Bartelt, and a sister-in-law who was more like a sister, Cindy Host. Barry was a loving father to two sons, Brenden (Tiffany) Bartelt, and Barry Leigh Bartelt II. He was blessed with the joy of being a grandfather to Graylin Eloise and Konnor Leigh, who brought immense happiness into his life.

In addition to his immediate family, Barry is survived by his two beloved sisters, Valerie (James) Nicholson of South Carolina, and Jan McNeal of California. His legacy of love extended to his nephews, Tom (Kristin) Burgett, Christopher (Mariea) Nicholson, and Tyrone (Niki) McNeal, as well as his niece, Kelly Pszyk, in addition to several great nieces and nephews.

Barry led a life rich in meaning and purpose. His intelligence was remarkable, yet he remained ever patient and humble. Everyone felt at ease in his company. Despite being a guitar-playing flower child of the ’60s, he earned one of the first computer science degrees from The Ohio State University. After retiring from the Ohio Education Association, he pursued a new adventure, attending the Central Ohio School of Massage and co-founding Healthy Outlook Massage Therapy in Westerville.

Barry was known as a true animal whisperer. His heart was an open sanctuary for countless dogs, cats, turtles, fish, squirrels, groundhogs, raccoons, and opossums. His passion for life was unrelenting, whether he was sailing, hiking, backpacking on the Appalachian Trail, rappelling, gardening, teaching yoga, or embracing a love for fitness. A dedicated music enthusiast, Barry enjoyed listening to, singing and playing music.

Barry cherished his friendships and welcomed new ones with open arms, from his college days to his time at OEA and Healthy Outlook. In his quest for truth and peace, he found solace in becoming one of Jehovah’s Witnesses. He served as an elder in the Grandview Congregation and found his purpose and hope in his faith. He was not only an encourager but also inspired by his many brothers and sisters.