John H. Barry

OTTAWA — John Howard Barry, 69, of Ottawa, formerly of Bristol, died Thursday morning, Feb. 21, at his home, after a brief fight against cancer. A visitation will be from 4 to 7 p.m. Friday, March 1, at Nelson Funeral Home, 1617 N. Bridge St., Yorkville. Local arrangements have been entrusted to Mueller Funeral Home in Ottawa.

John was born July 5, 1949 in Monmouth. His parents were John T. and Catherine (Myers) Barry. He was a graduate of Streator High School. John married Leanne M. Baudino on July 21, 1979, at St. Joseph’s Parish in Marseilles. He worked for Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railroad for 42 years. Railroading was his passion, as he was a third generation railroader. He was a member of St. Catherine Drexel Catholic Church in Sugar Grove and the United Transportation Union. He enjoyed fishing and loved the outdoors.

He is survived by his wife, Leanne; his two children, Kathrin L. (Matt) Gilbert, of Somonauk, and Elliot T. (Kaitlyn) Barry, of Geneva; two grandchildren, Noah and Leah Gilbert; a sister, Linda (Tarry) Barry Kemp, of Orlando, Fla; four nieces and seven nephews; and many supportive family and friends.

John was preceded in death by his parents; a sister, Judith Hinkelman; and one nephew.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Vitas Hospice, 105 Marquette St., Suite A, La Salle, IL, 61301.

You may sign the online guest book and share remembrances at MuellerFH.com.

Mueller Funeral Home and Crematory

800 First Avenue, Ottawa, IL 61350

815-434-4433 MuellerFH.com