JAMES LEE BARTON

BARTON, JAMES LEE, 82
James Lee Barton passed away August 17, 2017, peacefully at his home in High Springs, Florida, at the age of 82. Jim was born in Detroit, Michigan, on October 24, 1934. At the age of 17, he set his course to join the United States Navy and sailed the world on the USS CVE-122 Siboney. In 1955, he met his young future bride Diana Lee Roberts at a YMCA dance while the ship was based at the Philadelphia Naval Shipyard. Their marriage and loving partnership lasted over 62 years and they raised four children: James, Gerald, Joseph and Dawn. Jim owned a Sealtest Milk Route for over 10 years, from 1956 to 1964. In 1967 he joined the Canteen Corporation and provided them with over 35 years of loyal service. In 1988, Jim and his wife Diana settled on a beautiful property in High Springs, Florida. Many family gatherings were held here with grandchildren Landon, Collin, Ashley, Allen, Dylan, Amanda, and great granddaughter Allison. They all loved their time shared with PaPa and to hear his stories. In 1999, Jim joined Certified Armored Service in Gainesville and spent 15 years with them. In the fall of 2016, Jim was diagnosed with Mesothelioma, a type of cancer caused by exposure to asbestos. He was exposed to asbestos over a period of time in the Navy when working on the ship. He spent his remaining time sharing his life with his family and friends, within the view of his beautiful and beloved 'Bartonville.' His spirit stayed strong and he was able to say he loved and was loved in return. A memorial gathering will be held September 8, 2017, at St. Madeleine Catholic Church in High Springs, FL at 10:30am, with a burial service at Florida National Cemetery in Bushnell, FL at 2:30pm. The Barton Family is requesting in lieu of flowers to consider a donation to Haven Hospice in Chiefland in honor of James Lee Barton.