Michael H. Barto

October 25, 1954 ~ May 1, 2020
Michael H Barto (65)
October 25, 1954-May 1, 2020
Michael Barto was a loving husband to Rhonda, for 44 years and father to James Barto. James and his wife Jill are the parents of his beloved granddaughter, Bristol.
Being a grandfather to Bristol was by far the highlight of his life. He was a lifelong farmer, farming with his wife at his side, and later his son and daughter in law. Mike was known for his great sense of humor and incredible wit. He was very persistent, and would never, ever give up, or complain. People were naturally drawn to Mike, he rarely met someone who didn’t become a friend. No matter what was going on, he always had time for visiting. He was very loyal, honest and trustworthy. Staying true to his morals and convictions was very important to him. Mike was a man of integrity, who believed right was right and wrong was wrong. He thought one should be honest all the time, even when people were not looking. He was a humble man who believed in doing good deeds, not for the acknowledgment or glory, but for the sake of doing good deeds for others. Mike believed in making his own assessments of those around him based on their actions, rather than listening to rumors or what others may say. He was always the first to reach out a hand to try and lift someone up. Often he would hire someone just because they had a desire to work. He took great joy in being frugal, and seeing what he could build out of things that were obsolete or junk to most. He had an engineering spirit and the ability to improvise an unconventional repair in no time at all. Mike loved learning and could fix nearly anything. Sometimes he would fix things he had no use for, just for the challenge and to learn how it worked. Keeping up with Mike was a challenge no matter what he was doing. Anyone who was around him struggled to keep up because he always walked so fast! Mike loved to travel and see new places, Aruba being his favorite. He was an explorer everywhere he went, going anywhere that wasn’t a “tourist trap”. New friends and great stories always followed any trips with Mike….. We all could learn a lot about how to live life and treat others from Michael Barto. Dad, you will be dearly missed until we see you again.
Cremation rites have been accorded and a private burial will follow at a later date.
Memorials may be directed to “Veterans Helping Veterans”, a charity providing wheelchairs and handicap equipment to those whose insurance will not cover.
Such a great depiction of the wonderful husband, father, brother, and son Mike was. Deepest sympathies to Rhonda, and also his mother Marilyn McCullough, sisters Dianne Packee and Lori McCullough, and brothers Rick Barto and Randy McCullough. May your love and warm memories bring you comfort.
We would like to extend our deepest sympathy to Mike’s mother Marilyn and siblings Rick, Randy, Dianne and Lori and families. Mike was always such a great guy with a big heart and he will be missed by all who loved him. We will be keeping you all in our prayers.
We watched Mike grow up from his teens to adulthood with his parents and brothers and sisters. We enjoyed being around him —he was always in a good mood , laughing and joking.
We are so proud to of known Mike for the last 11 years. Heartfelt sympathies to his amazingly strong wife, Rhonda, Jim and Jill. The three of you were a TRUE blessing to his life and took such great care of him. May you find comfort in your wonderful memories. He is at peace now and reunited with his loving parents John and Norma.
God needed a great farmer and a friend. So he called on Mike. Rest in peace my good friend. You will be missed. ðŸ™ðŸšœðŸ’¯
Didn’t get to know mike real well but what I know he was a great guy part of a great family. I’m shur he will be missed
I met Mike just 5 short years ago while meeting with his son Jim. Mike was very cordial and always welcomed my visits. He was very respectful and pleasant to talk with. During this brief time I learned how Mike dearly loved his family and wife Rhonda. Mike will be sorely missed. But has left a great legacy to his family and those near to him.
It was just a few months ago that I was telling a neighbor that Mike, (and Rhonda) were the most genuinely good people I have ever known. Rhonda, Jim, Jill and Bristol – I am so sorry for your loss. I will never forget Mike.
Rhonda and family, sorry to hear of Mike’s passing. Norm Kane
To the entire Barto family we wish to convey our deepest sympathy on the passing of Mike. He was a true gentlemen and will be missed by all of us here in Peoria. We can only imagine how wonderful of a greeting he received from all his departed relatives now reunited with him in heaven.
Rick and family, So sorry for your loss.
Rhonda, I had no idea. I’m so very sorry for your loss. My heart is with you, Patty