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Jarvis BARTON Obituary
BARTON, Jarvis Stewart
"And now, the end is here
And so I face the final
curtain
My friend, I'll say it clear
I'll state my case, of which I'm certain.
I've lived a life that's full
I traveled each and every highway,
And more, much more than this, I did it my way."
Composer: Paul Anka
Jarvis Stewart Barton, age 91, died at his very favorite place on earth, Portland Boat Works, on Thursday (August 9, 2012). He was born on June 10, 1921, the son of James Casper Barton and Nellie Belle Avery Barton of East Hampton, and brother of Edwin Dwight, and James Casper, Jr, (Jarvis's twin), all deceased. He leaves his wife of 67 years, Doris Ostergren Barton and three children, Gregory (Virginia), Paul (Sharon), and Jean (Carl) Meloney, as well as twelve grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren. Jarvis attended East Hampton schools and served the U.S. Navy aboard the submarine, U.S.S. Runner. He was in Tokyo Bay at the signing of the Peace Treaty on September 2, 1945. Upon his return, he was able to purchase the Holter's Boat Yard on the Connecticut River in Portland, which then became the Portland Boat Works, Inc. Over the years, not only boats demanded his attention, but also restoration of antique cars, vintage boats and carousel horses and band organs. Unlike most people, Jarv enjoyed the journey-- not so much the destination.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Haddam Neck Covenant Church-Elevator Fund, 17 Haddam Neck Rd., East Hampton, CT 06424, or the Connecticut Children's Medical Center Foundation, 282 Washington St., Hartford, CT 06106. A memorial gathering and celebration for friends and family will be held at the Portland Boat Works on Friday, August 17, 2012, from 2-4 p.m. Join the family from the shore at 2 p.m. as we bid farewell to the "Captain of the Ship", and enjoy light refreshments and conversation following.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Jarvis BARTON
Bill white
August 6, 2021
To the most talented person I have ever met
Every one misses him
Walter & Dot Magnavice
August 7, 2020
It's hard to believe that it has been 8 years . Sadly Mr Mark Baker who was Mr Barton's long time friend and shipmate also crossed the bar last week. I will always cherish the memories of Mr Jarvis and Mr Baker. The many years of friendship and advise they shared and I experienced at the Boat works. Mr Jarvis and I would share our old Submarine Service experiences and he was and still remains one of my heroes. Mr Jarvis quick wit and splendid sense of humor always made my time at the yard enjoyable. He is missed.
Henry jacobs MD JD
August 6, 2020
Jarv was a remarkable man. An exceptional craftsman, a true old yankee enterpreneur, a man with a passion for restoring boats and cars to their former glory. Always a gentleman. Glad I had the chance to know him.
Henry jacobs MD JD
August 6, 2019
Jarv was the last of the 'Old Yankee' boat master craftsmen. his boatyard and marina were the best. you always felt that no boat problem was beyond his skill set. he loved his craft. he is missed.
David Hughes
August 31, 2012
My thoughts and prayers go out to Jarv's family and boat yard crew. When my dad passed Jarv was so kind and helpful to me. I have many fond memories of the time I spent chatting with him in his office about boats, cars and life. He will be missed.
August 20, 2012
I was sorry to hear of Jarv's passing and will miss seeing him in his golf cart at the marina and showing me his cars of which he was so proud.
Connie Hauk
Alfred DiCamillo Jr.
August 19, 2012
Jarv,I will always remember the tour that you gave me of the Portland Boat Works in you cart that made your day it was a trip I will never forget let alone the smile on you face,you will always be remembered.
~Alfred N DiCamillo Jr,
Don Ball
August 18, 2012
Jarv, you are fondly remembered by 2 generations of the Ball Family. Elizabeth, now 98, her children Don, Allen and Janet. Employee and Customer. God Bless you and your Family.
Don Ball
August 18, 2012
Two generations of the Ball Family remember you fondly Jarv. Elizabeth, now 98 years and her children, Don, Allen and Janet. God Bless and keep you and your family.
a rare day of calm seas
Dave Genest
August 18, 2012
I will miss Jarv's humorous stories, energy, and passion for his family and work he did. Not to mention the invaluable lessons on boats, boating and life. I know my grandfather is still in shock that Jarv passed, and will miss his winter weekend chats in the office- those 'two old salts from Portland Maine that could get through thick fog' as one sail boater put it (not realizing Jarv and my grandfather were from CT)
Richard Dudek
August 17, 2012
For 18 years I was lucky to live next door to Jarv at the boat works. He took good care of his neighbors. Even before I was his neighbor and needed help with a boat, I tied up at the boat works and helped me correct the problem. Jarv after I left Riverview St ext I still came by and looked forward to seeing you out on the dock. I spent some great years next door to you. I send my condolences to the Barton family. When I go by the boat works I can picture you floating by the house with the calliope playing.
August 17, 2012
Susan Bransfield
August 17, 2012
My condolences to the Barton family, and thanks for Jarv's many, many years of service and dedication to our town. Jarv Barton's generosity and kindness to the Town of Portland will be remembered forever.
August 16, 2012
On behalf of the entire Meriden Motor Boat Club we loved, learned, and respected ALL the cheshired lessons from "the captain of our heritage CT RIVER.. We will always remember and spread your history....Commodore Mike Dolezel and the fleet of Meriden Motor Boat Club
The entire Post Yachts organization
August 16, 2012
Our deepest condolences go to the Barton Family. Jarvis was a rare individual who possessed the highest levels of integrity and honesty. He will be missed greatly as an individual and a integral member of the marine industry. With Jarv you always knew where he stood, whether you liked it or not, truly a great person to work with.
We will all miss him. We will keep you in our thoughts and prayers.
August 16, 2012
August 16, 2012
August 16, 2012
August 16, 2012
August 16, 2012
I grew up with Jarve as a great mentor and will always be appreciative of his guidance. To Greg, Paul and Jeanie your father was a very special person to many and will be missed. Bll Larson
Judy Kudrak
August 15, 2012
Only met Jarvis briefly many moons ago when I worked with Doris at the Red Cross. Jarvis took the Chapter employees on a trip down river and played the caliope for us. It was a fun time. He lived a wonderful, long life and impacted all whose lives he touched. To Doris and family, Jarvis will be missed but we are all richer for having known him. Blessings to all of you.
August 15, 2012
Our condolences' to the Barton family. We came to know Jarv when we kept our boat at Portland Boat. He was always kind and helpful to us, especially when we had a problem with our boat. R.I.P. Dave & Jan Marsh
August 15, 2012
I enjoyed seeing Jarvis at various car shows. My interest is the Austin Healey.My thoughts are with the family.
David A. Barton- A distant relative.
Jon and Deb Clark
August 14, 2012
Jon and I shared many trips with Jarv in his pristine launch up and down the river. Many great stories from someone we both greatly admired. Now, as we sit enjoying the river from our boat, our thoughts of Jarv and his launch will always be on our minds....He will be greatly missed.
Jim Pinto Affordable Marine
August 14, 2012
Jarv, when I first moved my biz to Portland in 96, I was warned to stay away from your yard by a few "other" competitors here in Portland. About 6 months later you walked in my shop and asked if I wanted to work on some of your customers boats because you heard I was an honest guy. All you asked was to be fair with you and I could pick up my check when I was done. I didn't know who you were at the time and was wondering why is the guy coming to me? When I asked around the yard I was told "That was Jarv Barton, he owns Portland." Thank you for trusting me. Its a very sad day for so many boaters you the many people who have had the honor of knowing you! God Bless you and your family.
Christine (Baker) Gerndt
August 14, 2012
I am saddened to hear of the passing of such a good man. There are few more fitting places for him to pass.
Mr Barton taught me much about life as well as about boating. There will always be a special place in my heart for Mr Barton.
The Barton family is in my thoughts and prayers.
August 14, 2012
To Paul and family. We send our prayers to you at the loss of your dad. Although we never met him, we know he was quite a man who lived life and enjoyed his toys...
Mike and Barbara Marino.
Pam Ullrich (Zalewski)
August 14, 2012
Jarv,
You were truely an inspiration to all. You will be missed dearly from all that knew you!!! RIP!!
Susan Parker
August 14, 2012
I met Jarvis many years ago while working with Doris at Red Cross.My oldest daughter was 10 years old and requested to see his classic cars. He was so gracious to both of us and his enthusiasm sparked a life long interest in classic cars for both of us. Thank you so much to Jarvis and Doris . God Bless.
George Field
August 14, 2012
I enjoyed meeting Jarvis on Wayne Carini's wonderful "Chasing Classic Cars" television show! Old-time boat guys are rare commodities today!
Bill White
August 14, 2012
To the Barton Family and the entire crew at Portland Boatworks.
I remember the first time I met Jarvis, I was one of the luckey ones that he showed me his car collection.
Jarvis was a one of a kind never met anyone with the talents that he had it didnt matter if it was carpentry, electrical Etc he was the best at all of it.
He will be missed by many and his stories will continue on in many of our memoried.
What an honor to have known him.
Bill
August 14, 2012
We will all miss this wonderful man who always geeted everyonyone with a welcoming smile and a good word for the day.
My condolences to Doris and the family that was blessed with his presence and love. He will be missed by all who knew him.
Fran Lavigne,
Natasha Lee
August 14, 2012
My thoughts are with the Barton Family. Jarv was one of a kind!
Rick Venner
August 14, 2012
Paul and Sharon,
My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Linda Frayne
August 14, 2012
My thoughts and prayers go out to everyone that is a part of Mr. Barton's family. I have only known him for a few years, but enjoyed every conversation I had with him. He was one of akind. The marina will not be the same without him. We will miss him.
Henry Thorpe
August 14, 2012
Jean, Doris and Paul...I am so sorry I am still on the ship and will not be able to attend on Friday. Please know how deeply I share your sadness in losing this truly wonderful friend and mentor. Seldom has there been a life more celebrated!
Ron Chiasson, Jr.
August 14, 2012
I was so sorry to hear of his passing while we were away. I hopr to be there on Friday at PBW.
August 13, 2012
I was so saddened to hear of Jarv's passing. My condolences to Doris and the entire Barton family. Bob and I had so many happy and wonderful years in the boatyard and the friendship Bob shared with Jarv made Portland Boat Works Bob's home away from home. I can see them now with all their friends, navigating the skies and heavens together. What a remarkable man and friend! His presence will be missed by all!
With fond remembrance and memories....Millie Reilly
Carol & Donna Ferrucci/Arbas
August 13, 2012
We will miss you. Such an extraordinary man. We had a lot of respect for Jarv. We always seemed to find a few moments to exchange a couple words with one another. Moments that were pleasurable and now always to be remembered. We had our last conversation a few days before his passing. We never told him directly how much we admired him but by our actions I think he knew. We will always think of you when we ride on the river. Our condolences to the entire family, the Portland Boatworks family, and the furry friend that he leaves behind.
Carol and Donna and the boys, Bear and Boomer
Carol & Donna Ferrucci/Arbas
August 13, 2012
We will miss you. Such an extraordinary man. We had a lot of respect for Jarv. We always seemed to find a few moments to exchange a couple words with one another. Moments that were pleasurable and now always to be remembered. We had our last conversation a few days before his passing. We never told him directly how much we admired him but by our actions I think he knew. We will always think of you when we ride on the river. Our condolences to the entire family, the Portland Boatworks family, and the furry friend that he leaves behind.
Carol and Donna and the boys, Bear and Boomer
John Deware
August 13, 2012
Jarv and Portland Boatworks were legend in Connecticut and the Marine Industry. Over the years, we got to know each other and I'm proud to have been his friend.
Occasionally, on a Sunday morning - Winter, Summer, any time of year, I would occasionally visit Portland and there would be Jarv, sitting in his office with a few of his buddies
having their Dunkin Donuts -- and, of course, there was Tommie getting her Dunkin too. They were inseparable.
You had a good run Jarv -- Goodbye my old friend.
Jim Sinclair
August 13, 2012
My deepest condolences to the Barton family. Jarv was a true yeachtsman that no matter the size of your boat or the problem you had, always seemed to know the solution. Thank you Jarv for all the advice and friendship over the years. My boats and I will always be in your debt.
Maria Aresco
August 13, 2012
My condolences to the Barton family. Jarv was a great man. Thank you for the boating wisdom, trips to Stowe and your kindness. You will be dearly missed.
Butch Stark
August 13, 2012
Jarv will be missed very much. In the 45 years I have known him I have always had the utmost respect for him. He was always a pleasure to deal with.My condolences to the family. Butch Stark
August 13, 2012
To Jean & Family,
We are sorry to hear about Jav's passing. Pinky will always remember the wonderful talks he had with your father about old car's. All our love to you Jean we will always think of you as family.
Pinky & Patty Murphy
Portland Conn.
Ron Milardo
August 13, 2012
Jarvis had more talent than anyone that I have met in this industry, bar none. When describing him to someone that did not know him, I would say" he is so good, he can fix broken glass"! I knew him for 43 years and learned a lot about boats, but more about life and how to do things right.
Jarvis made everyone around him better, and that will last forever.
Tim Gallagher
August 13, 2012
My condolences to Jarvis's family.Jarv you were a legend, how we all enjoyed watching you operate your favorite place-Portland Boat Works. The jokes, stories and advise, it never changed, and you will surely be missed.
2007
Henry,Beryl, Courts, Tigger Thorpe
August 13, 2012
Sunday donuts, great conversations,lovely boats.
We will always sound the horn as we pass the house and remember a kind and generous man.
John Mulligan
August 13, 2012
To Doris & Paul and the entire Barton Family -
Jarvis Barton was a most honorable and unforgettable man who I first met at Albin Holter's Boatyard where I docked my boat in the early fifties.
Later, as a young CT Trooper with Portland as part of my patrol, I would often stop by his boatyard to enjoy his stories and company and to "fill up" on his counsel.
When the CSP assigned me to weekend duty on the CT River in the sixties it was Jarv who guided me with advice and help us maintain our patrol boat.
I shall never forget his kindness to me and my department.
August 13, 2012
We had the pleasure of meeting Jarvis this year! We instantly admired him. Sorry we didn't have more time to get to know him and learn from him. Our sincere condolences to his family and friends. Sending comfort and love, Eugenia & Jeff
BOB MILLER
August 13, 2012
CONDOLENCES TO JARV'S FAMILY.I KNEW JARV FOR 56 YEARS.HE HAD THE MOST JOKES-SOME VERY FUNNY-WE ALWAYS LAUGHED!I LEARNED SO MUCH FROM OUR CONVERSATIONS EVENTHOUGH HE WASN'T TRYING TO TEACH ME ANYTHING.THANKS JARV!
Kathy Wall Cook
August 13, 2012
To Paul, Greg and Jean and their families - I remember waiting on Jarv at Wall's Dairy many times, he always had a joke or funny story to tell that would make me laugh. Wonderful guy and will be greatly missed.
alan and joan anderson
August 13, 2012
we are going to miss you
Tiara Yachts
August 13, 2012
To the Barton family, and the entire Portland Boat Works extended family, our deepest condolences for your loss. Jarvis was a man of distinct character, ingenuity, and rock solid principal. Fairwinds and Following Seas Jarvis.
Kenneth Tarr
August 13, 2012
Thirty two years ago, I started as a customer and then became a friend of Jarv. It didn't happen overnight and it took years to become a member of what I called "Jarv's Club". Over the years, I looked forward to my time in Portland and my wife, Charlotte, said I seemed to enjoy that more than being on my boat during the summer.
One story that Jarv enjoyed my telling over and over is worth repeating. I would bring my mother with me during my winter visit to check on my boat. She would enjoy seeing Jarv's magnificent car collection and the two would chat. She was eight years older than Jarv and could appreciate the cars and everything he accomplished. The night before her open heart surgery, when open heart surgery was a new medical procedure and not as common place as today, she was very worried and said:
"I wish Jarv Barton was doing the surgery tomorrow.....if he was doing it, I know it would be done correctly!"
I shall truly miss Jarv and yes, and owning a boat will be very different for me without him in the future.
Frank Maratta
August 12, 2012
Jarv, you were an incredible man who I always had the utmost respect for, your attention to detail and general wisdom was the best. That player piano going by Harbor Park always kept the patio entertained.. You live a life I envy Peace out Jarv
August 12, 2012
So grateful for all the memories from childhood to now, you will surly be missed, & in our thoughts each time we travel the Connecticut river. Tim & Cindy Baker
T. L. Williams
August 12, 2012
To The Barton Family, I was sorry to read about the passing of your dear loved one. "May The Lord of peace himself give you peace constanly in every way." 2 Thessalonians 3:16
August 12, 2012
Jarv, the Connecticut river, and the boatyard were part of our lives for many years. He and Lem enjoyed exchanging stories and laughs, along with a mutual love for the water, and boats. Jarv will be missed. Lois Hoops
Cliff & Lois Russell
August 12, 2012
Jean, Doris and the entire Barton family, we are so saddened to hear this news. All of our thoughts & prayers are with the Barton family now & in the days to come.
eileen cichon
August 12, 2012
great man always saw the good in people and encourage them he will be miss
brain n eileen cichon
August 12, 2012
i will miss him driving by tooting the horn and waving he always saw the good in people and encourage them on will definetly miss not seeing him on his golf cart at the boat yard rest in peace
Tom Matulaniec
August 12, 2012
Jarv, you taught me more about life and all things mechanical than I can explain. A true fountain of wisdom and knowledge. My condolences to all who feel this loss. Farewell
Henri Papineau
August 12, 2012
When I was 18, Jarvis said to me "You know how I want to die? When I'm 91 I want to get shot by an 18 year old jealous husband." Well you got the 91 part anyway.
If anyone can show me how to live, it's Jarvis. What an outstanding man. My father was his customer for 50 years. May God Rest your soul good sir and I hope your ghost haunts Portland Boat Works forever.
melissa rondinone
August 12, 2012
You will be forever missed! U were such a wonderful man!
Mr & Mrs Rondinone & kids
Walt & Dot Magnavice
August 12, 2012
I first met Mr Barton many years ago while trying to retrieve Tim Baker's boat on the old Boat ramp with a 2 wheel drive pick up in a rain storm. My first impression of Mr Barton has remained all these years as a Man with Great Humor, so much wisdom and shared values. There is not enough room here to explain how men like him who are all too rare in this life have set life long examples for those of use Baby Boomers who have had the good fortune to know men of his character. Truly a rare honor.
This plus the Honor of being a fellow Submariner..A WW2 Submarine Veteran, a real life Hero to us Cold War Submariners who served in their example..His life was so full and we were so much better to have known him.
I will miss him dearly, His smile, his stories and his wisdom, the Boatyard will never be the same..The Barton Family and Friends have our deepest sympathy and are in our prayers.
Jarvis , Shipmate and Teacher Rest in Peace until we all meet again on that distant shore.
"Sailor Rest Your Oars"
Hand Salute Too!
henry jacobs
August 12, 2012
Jarv was a straight shooter. A knowledgeable guy with a lot of
talents. I enjoyed talking to him about how the world has changed around us so fast that it is frightening, but his example of steadfastness was always comforting. He believed in the bedrock principles that have made America great. Visiting with him was like savoring a bit of Norman Rockwell's America. I will miss him.
Brian McDonnell
August 12, 2012
I will miss you Jarv. You always had a joke to tell and time to show your investment in "American Iron". My condolence to Jean, Paul, Crew and Tommy
August 12, 2012
I will miss you Jarv. Always had a joke to tell, and time to show his investment in "American Iron". My condolence to Jean, Paul, Crew and Tommy
Joe Mancarella
August 12, 2012
Will miss Jarvs jokes when I go to portland He was fun to be around!
Alison Wagner
August 12, 2012
Jarv was larger than life!!the town wont be the same without him...May he rest in peace and his friends and family enjoy the Happy memories
August 12, 2012
Jarv's generosity and willingness to share his knowledge was what set him apart from everyone else. He made life more 'fun' for everyone who was lucky enough to know him. I will miss him.
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