John Barto

NAPLATE — John D. Barto Jr. joined his loving wife, Audrey, in Heaven on Tuesday, May 15, at Life Care Center of Wilmington, N.C. He was surrounded by his loving children at the bedside. Private services were held.

John was born Feb. 25, 1930, and was a lifelong resident of Naplate. He graduated from Ottawa High School.

John joined the United States Marine Corps and served during the Korean War from 1950 to 1954. While stationed at Camp Lejeune, N.C., he met the love of his life, Audrey Virginia Gerald. They were married in September 1951, and after his honorable discharge, he and his new bride moved back to Naplate, where they raised their three children.

John focused all of his attention on being a provider for his family. He worked full time in the unbearably hot glass factory of Libbey-Owens-Ford. However, wanting to give his family the best life possible, he could be found working part-time painting houses and tending bar. Additionally, he served as a fireman and fire chief for the Naplate Volunteer Fire Department.

John was preceded in death by his wife of 64 years, Audrey.

He is survived by his sister, Paula Barto; daughter, Teresa (Barto) Helms; son, John D. Barto III and his wife, Donna, and son, Gerry F. Barto; three grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to Disabled American Veterans (DAV).

The family would like to extend a most heartfelt “thank you” for the care and compassion demonstrated by Dr. Raja Bhat and his staff, Ceilya and Vidya.