John F. Barton Jr.

 

John F. Barton, Jr., 72, of Indianapolis, passed from this world on October 24th.  He was born August 5, 1951 to Hazel (Boyd) and John F. Barton, Sr. in Indianapolis. 

John is survived by his loving wife, Vanessa (Meadows); children Michael (Amanda), Emily, Heather Warnecke, and Patrick (Lindsay) and their mother, Anne Barton (Becher); step-children Delaney, Ryan, Wesley, Spencer and Logan Moss; six grandchildren; and labrador retrievers Harriet Carey and Ivy.  He was preceded in death by his parents, sister Judith Klingensmith, son-in-law Brent Warnecke, and a unique goldendoodle Wrigley.

John was a member of St. Therese Little Flower Catholic Church parish where he also attended grade school.  Following his graduation from Cathedral High School, where he was affectionately known as “The Mayor,” John proudly served in the United States Marine Corps and his station assignments took him across the world to Okinawa Air Base in Japan and back to Yuma, Arizona as a water survival instructor.  After his honorable discharge, John graduated from Indiana University with his Bachelor of Science degree in Physical Therapy and began a long career as a physical therapist with several hospitals in Indiana, where he positively impacted the lives of thousands of patients.

John had a well-known reputation as a hard worker, both around his own house and constantly lending a hand to friends and children.  He was a passionate fan of the Chicago Cubs baseball club, and also supported the Indiana Hoosiers and Notre Dame football.  His love of sports led him to become a youth baseball umpire.  Over the years, John competed in several mini-marathons, triathlons and cycling events. John was truly at his happiest when hosting large gatherings and celebrating with his loved ones by the pool or around the fireplace.

Services will be held at Little Flower Catholic Church on October 31st at 10:00 a.m., with visitation beginning at 9:00 a.m.  Following the funeral, all are welcome to join the family for a celebration of life at the CYO Center at 12:30. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you please consider donations to Little Flower Catholic Church in John’s name for the benefit of its athletic association." 

Services have been entrusted to Freeman Family Funeral Homes and Crematory, 819 S. Harrison St. in Shelbyville.

 

Online condolences may be shared with John’s family at www.freemanfamilyfuneralhomes.com.