Obituary of Wilbur Gary Barton

Barton, Wilbur Gary “Skip” Barton

Auburn, Michigan

Beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather passed away at home on Monday, January 2, 2023 at the age of 77, surrounded by family.  He was born in Bay City, Michigan on November 13, 1945, to the late Wilbur D. Barton and Eleanor J. (Schmidt) Barton.  He was predeceased by his sister Sandra Green. He is survived by the love of his life, his wife of 53 years, Connie (Adams) Barton, son John (Shannon) Barton, twin daughters Julie (Jeff) Passage and Jennifer (Bob) Bond, grandchildren Adam (Katelyn) Barton, Christopher Barton, Noah Bond, Cassandra Passage, Nathaniel Passage, Tamara Claes, Garett (Kaitlyn) Ballard, and great-grandchildren Circe, Laila, and Kaia Ballard, and Ethan Barton. 

Skip relished spending time with his family, and was an avid fan of all of his children’s and grandchildren’s extracurricular activities; he attended countless football games, marching band competitions, basketball games, softball games, soccer games, wrestling matches, and dance recitals. He adored his dogs, Farley and Reesey, who were by his side until the end, and was compassionate toward all animals, diligently feeding the birds, squirrels, and stray cats. He and his wife enjoyed antiquing, and collected, restored, and sold antique radios.  Skip was known for his great sense of humor, and was always quick with a comeback or a witty remark. He was able to fix anything that was broken, and dried many a tear by fixing the kids’ toys, bikes, or cars. Skip was a fervent guitar player who performed in rock bands during high school and later in local country bands. 

Skip was the proud owner of Barton’s Floor Covering in Bay City for many years. He was a U. S. Army veteran, serving in France and Germany, where he enjoyed visiting many places throughout Europe.

Skip served as Worshipful Master of Wenona Masonic Lodge in Bay City.  He attended Tri County Worship Center in Auburn, where he played guitar in the band and volunteered.  He also volunteered at the Good Samaritan Rescue Mission in Bay City.

Honoring Skip’s wishes, cremation has taken place.  A Celebration of Life will take place on Saturday, January 14, 2023 from 1:00-5:00 PM at Barton Hall at 1014 Marquette Avenue in Bay City, with Pastor Mark Alba sharing a short message of remembrance at 3:00. Anyone who would like to speak is invited to do so at that time.