Kenneth Barnard

1936 - 2025

Kenneth Niles Barnard, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on September 8, 2025. A man of many talents, unwavering faith, and a legendary sense of humor-especially when it came to a good "dad joke"-Ken was honored with a memorial service at the United Methodist Church in Portola, Calif. on November 8, 2025.

He was born in Lincoln, Neb. and graduated from the University of Nebraska in 1959. He served his country with pride as a United States Marine, completing four years of active duty and thirteen additional years in the Reserve. After his active duty, he moved to Milligan, Neb. and became president of the local bank in Milligan.

Ken spent the last forty years in Graeagle, Calif., where he became a cherished member of the community. His wit, generosity, and steady presence enriched the lives of all who knew him, both in Graeagle and the surrounding towns. A lifelong and faithful Methodist, Ken was deeply committed to his church family. He served the Portola United Methodist Church in many roles, including singing in the church choir with Andi. His commitment to his church family was a cornerstone of his life.

Ken's life was marked by curiosity, creativity, and accomplishment. He pursued a wide range of careers with passion and integrity-banker, real estate developer, radio host, and tax preparer. An enthusiast of trains and cars, and lifelong fan of Lawrence Welk, Ken brought joy and laughter wherever he went.

Ken is survived by his loving wife and soul mate of 40 years, Andi (Steele) Barnard; their daughter, Trish and her husband, Shiloh McCoy, and their daughters, Charley and Bernadette; his sons from his first marriage to Louise Lauber, Paul Barnard and his wife, Linda, and Chris Barnard and his wife, Sally; Paul and Linda's children: Joseph Barnard, and Juliet and her husband, Chris Thomas; Chris's children: Jennifer Barnard and Jonathan Barnard; his stepson, Cory Herbolsheimer and his wife, Alice, and their daughter, Amanda; his stepdaughter, Raschelle Kindig and her husband, Michael and their daughter, Keira; his brother, Allen Barnard; his brother-in-law, David Rau; and many nieces, nephews and dear friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Niles and Rhoda Barnard; his brother, Roger Barnard; his sister, Ann Rau; and his sister-in-law, Betty Barnard.

Ken's warmth, humility, and kindness will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. His legacy lives on in the laughter he shared, the love he gave, and the lives he touched.

Memorials may be given to the Portola United Methodist Church, Portola, Calif. (https://portolaumc.org).