Gene Barto's Obituary
Eugene "Gene" Barto, 69, passed away suddenly on Thursday, April 12, 2012 at St. John West Shore Hospital in Westlake.
Gene was born on May 13, 1942 in Cleveland. After living for a while in Lakewood, he settled in North Ridgeville in 1977. He was a member of the International Union of Operating Engineers Local 18.
Gene was very active in the community and as a member and an usher at St. Julie Billiart Church. A 4th Degree Knight with the Knights of Columbus and he also volunteered his time with the "Campomaniacs" and with "Hooked on Fishing". He also loved playing poker, golfing, fishing and being with his family.
Survivors include his wife of 38 years, Berni; sons, Todd of Portland, OR, and Joshua of North Ridgeville; daughters, Amy of Oakland, CA, Keri (Bill) Sparenga of Brunswick, and Katy of Lakewood; grandchildren, Elija Barto, Shae DeVito, Isla Rose Barto and Skye Lynn Sparenga; and his sister, Lynn (Bill) Rieker of Destin, FL.
Preceded in death by his parents, Eugene and Kate Barto (nee Fritz); and his brother Craig.
Friends will be received at St. Julie Billiart Church, 5500 Lear Nagle Rd, North Ridgeville on Monday, April 16, 2012 from 3 PM until Mass time at 6:30 PM. The Reverend Dr. Richard Gonser, Pastor of St. Julie Billiart Church will be the celebrant.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations to the family would be appreciated.
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