Brian Barta

1963 - 2014

Barta, Brian R. (1963-2014)

Brian R. Barta, of Elkhart Lake, left us too soon at the age of 51, on Tuesday November 25, 2014.

Brian was a kind and gentle man. A man who asked for nothing but always gave everything he had. Brian's warm nature and selflessness were honed early on growing up in a loving home with devoted parents and three adoring sisters.

At 29 years old, Brian met Helen, an older woman with six kids, and instantly knew he had met his family. From that day on he was Helen's husband and best friend and she was the love of his life. He cherished the kids (and eventual grandkids) as his own. An expert at relocation, no one packed a truck better when moving one of the kids off to college or to their new home, and always with a smile. The love and patience he showed his children was boundless. Brian was truly the conduit that encased the live wires that this family is made of. He completed our family circle.

Brian was a true renaissance man of art and craftsmanship hiding behind his classically rugged, handsome exterior and quiet persona. He enjoyed the simple things in life like chocolate malts, Helen's homemade cake, dry roasted peanuts and brats from a charcoal grille, not gas. Brian didn't need lavish nights on the town or fancy vacations; he was as happy working on art projects at home with his wife or tinkering with his model train than he would be anywhere. But Brian did always enjoy his "on a whim" adventures with Helen, be it to Montana or to the nonexistent hot springs of Minnesota.

A bear-hugger par excellence, Brian exceeded at making those around him feel safe and loved. The kind of man who made you feel like you could do anything simply by having him in your corner. His character and love will be deeply missed by all that knew him. An angel on earth, now an angel in Heaven.

Brian is survived by his wife Helen (Dentz) Barta; his six children Jed Tinkle, Malachi Tinkle, Tamar (Justin) Kasberg, Cana (Colin) Comer, Rachel (Jake) Karras, Ezra Tinkle; his three sisters Lindy (Bob) Heus, Sue (Davy) Washnesky, Diane (Greg) Abbott; nine grandchildren, numerous nieces, nephews, and other relatives and friends

A Memorial Service will be held on Sunday (Nov. 30th) at 3:00 P.M. at the Suchon Funeral Home in Plymouth.

Friends and relatives may call at the Suchon Funeral Home on Sunday from 1:00 P.M. until the time of services.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to your local Fire Department in Brian's name.

The Suchon Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Plymouth is serving the family, for online condolences, please visit www.suchonfh.com