Kenneth Alan Barton, age 76, of Beavercreek, returned home to the Lord on Wednesday, March 27, 2024 after a brief battle with pancreatic cancer. Ken was born on February 27, 1948 in Cleveland, the son of James and Florence Barton. He graduated from Case Western Reserve University in 1970. Ken joined the United States Air Force, and served as a Weapons Systems Officer/Navigator on F-111 aircraft. While stationed in Okinawa, he met the love of his life, Mary (McIlvaine) Barton. They were united in marriage on June 9, 1973 at the Calvary Presbyterian Church. Ken came to Wright Patterson AFB in 1982 and made Beavercreek his home. He served for 22 years in the Air Force, achieving the rank of Lieutenant Colonel, and then worked for Fidelity Investments before fully retiring in 2004.
Ken's Air Force career took him around the world, and his love of adventure never stopped. Ken and Mary traveled all over the globe together, crossing destinations off their bucket list. Some of their favorite trips were Tahiti, Iceland, and the Galapagos Islands. He later bought an RV and could often be found planning a future trip. Ken enjoyed gardening, tending his yard, and continuing to expand his mind by taking learning courses. He was fascinated by astronomy and was greatly looking forward to the recent solar eclipse. We take comfort knowing he will have seen it from a perfect vantage point. Ken took pride in researching his family's genealogy and immigration to the United States, and took a trip to the Isle of Man to walk in their footsteps. Ken served as a Trustee at Kirkmont Presbyterian Church and had a deep faith in the Lord. He rooted for The Ohio State Buckeyes, Cleveland Browns, and Guardians.
Ken was an amazing husband and father. He will be remembered as always kind, generous, level headed, and wise. His pride and joy was his close-knit family. Ken's favorite pastime was relaxing with his loved ones while enjoying food, fellowship, and a bottle of wine. He loved hosting family Sunday dinner, holiday celebrations, and caring for his precious Grandchildren. Ken's love and care is the bedrock that his family is built on and will continue to stand strong.
He is survived by his wife of 50 years, Mary Barton; three sons, Scott (Sheri) Barton of Beavercreek, Brian (Jen) Barton of Centerville, and David (Brandi) Barton of Beavercreek; grandson Blake Barton; three granddaughters Ashley (Patrick) Corbin of Bellbrook, Claire Barton, and Lauren Barton; Cousin Bruce Barton of Virginia. He was preceded in death by his parents.
A Celebration of Life service will be held on May 4th at Kirkmont Presbyterian Church in Beavercreek, OH beginning at 10:30am. We will welcome family, friends, and anyone who wants to pay their respects beginning at 9:30am. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests a donation to the Wounded Warrior Project or your favorite local charity. The Newcomer Funeral Home, Beavercreek, is assisting the family. Condolences may be shared with the family at www.NewcomerDayton.com
The family would like to thank the the team at Soin Medical Center Emergency Department and Intensive Care Unit for their care and compassion.