On February 2, 2021, Louise Barnard celebrated her 100th birthday with friends and family. On the evening of February 3, 2021, she peacefully passed away in her home in Waters, MI, and went home to be with her Lord and take part in the “ultimate celebration”.
She was born February 2, 1921, in Huron County, MI, to William James and Ruth (Lewis) McKay.
On March 25, 1939, she married Gordon Arthur Barnard of River Rouge, MI. They raised one son, Robert Barnard (deceased), and six daughters, Elaine McPherson (Bourbon, IN), Linda Popp (Waters, MI), Donna Carmean (Climax, MI), Anita Verlinde (Grayling, MI), Bonnie Miller (Grayling, MI), and Barbara Sewell (Gaylord, MI).
In 1939, Louise began collecting and restoring dolls. In 1967, With four children still in school, she went back to school and graduated from Gaylord High School in 1968. In 1972, she began working as a postal clerk at the Waters post office, where she retired in 1983, to enjoy retirement with her husband, Gordon, and continue her love of doll collecting. Throughout her life, she was active with her children and grandchildren. She was blessed with 15 grandchildren, 23 great-grandchildren, 6 great-great-grandchildren, and 2 great-great-great grandchildren.
Louise was a member of Peace Lutheran Church in Gaylord and active in the prayer shawl ministry. Throughout the years was active in several charitable organizations.
A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.
Louise always said, “Do not send me flowers when I pass, but instead, buy a child some socks, hats, or mittens,” so please, in lieu of flowers, make contributions to any children’s organization of your choice to help care or feed God’s children. Memorial contributions may also be directed to Peace Lutheran Church in Gaylord, MI.
Arrangements were entrusted to Nelson Funeral Home and Cremation Service, PO Box 1548, Gaylord, MI 49734.
6 comments on “Louise Barnard”
Rest in Peace Louise
I used to wait on Louise and Gordon when I worked at BJ,s. I was just thinking of her the other day. She used to bring me little fruit cakes. What a sweet woman she was. God has truly gained another angel!
Linda, Don and I wish to send condolences on the passing of your mom. There are not many parents left of the Gaylord High class of 1965. What an accomplishment for your mom to attain 100 years and more than that to have known not only her great-grandchildren but great-great grandchildren and almost unheard of, great-great-great grandchildren. May God bless your entire family…..
Always a friendly smile at the old post office! Hugs to Anita and Amy. Memories of Stuckeys too!
Just found our singing postmaster recently!! Will drop off socks on my next trip to Gaylord.
Elaine, your sisters, Patti, and Cathy
Just read in the paper that your mom and grandma died last month. Jim and I drove past her house not too long ago. 💯 wow. What a life. Time for all good memories to be shared. We certainly have some. Love to you all.
I love this woman like my own Grandmother , I will miss her deeply, she was always so happy to see me, and made me feel loved, God Bless the whole family and Louise,