Joe Ward Barden

Joe Ward Barden of Forest Township died Sunday, May 1, 2016 with his loving family surrounding him. He was born on the family farm April 6, 1921 the son of Fred and Ruby Nichols Barden. He married his high school sweetheart Irma Lawler in 1942 and they shared 73 years of marriage. Joe was a lifelong farmer, butcher, and livestock trucker through his 90th year. He was known as the "bullshipper." Joe loved his family and his many friends. Joe served his country in 1945 with the Army in Japan and had 70 years of service with the Otisville American Legion Ezra Paul Post 321. Joe was a member of the West Forest United Methodist Church, Genesee County ASCS, Genesee County Sheriff's Posse, and Friends of 4-H. Joe is survived by his wife, Irma; daughter Sandra (Gary) Smith of Millington; and son Fred (Cathy) Barden of Vassar. Grandchildren: Renee and Todd Willson, Adam and Jean Barden, Eric and Cheryl Barden, and Kara and Mark Brace. Great grandchildren: Addison, Tyler, Elise, Reid, Drew, Wesley. Joe was preceded in death by his parents and sisters Gretchen Hartt, Beulah Kenney and Carol Barden. Joe enjoyed hunting, fishing in the upper peninsula, and cutting wood. He spent many hours riding his 4-wheeler around the farm. Joe's celebration of life will be Tuesday, May 3, from 2-7pm at the Mumford-Hudson Funeral Home in Otisville. The funeral service will be Wednesday, May 4 at 11 am at the West Forest United Methodist Church, 7297 E. Farrand Road, Millington. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made to West Forest United Methodist Church or Otisville American Legion Ezra Paul Post 321.