David Lynn Barnett

David Lynn Barnett, born on November 27, 1934, in Wabash, to Dorwin J. and Mildred Leah (Baldinger) Barnett, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on July 12, 2025, at Peabody Healthcare Center in North Manchester. David lived a life marked by dedication, hard work, and a profound love for his family and church.

After graduating from Wabash High School in 1952, David enlisted in the United States Army, proudly serving his country in Germany. Upon completing his military service, he began a successful career as a lineman for General Telephone Company in Valparaiso. David and his wife, Kay, moved to North Manchester, where he continued his working journey. He devoted seven years to Heckman Bindery before forging a lasting legacy at Wendel's Decor Shoppe, which he co-owned and operated with his brother-in-law Todd Richards for 30 years. Even after retirement, David's unwavering work ethic persisted as he took on a role at The Hardware in North Manchester for a number of years, and finally as he contributed to his Magnolia Lane community at Peabody.

David was deeply involved in his church community as a member of the Congregational Christian Church, now known as Walnut Street Church. His service as an usher, alongside his participation in the Men's Fellowship, highlighted his commitment to giving back. He enjoyed countless mornings cooking breakfast at the church. Throughout life, David exhibited patience, humility, and wit. Loved for his humor and warm smile, David had an extraordinary ability to uplift those around him, making the best of any situation and welcoming everyone with open arms.

David was also an enthusiastic lover of the outdoors. He found joy in gardening, fishing, hunting, walking his dog, and in his younger years, golfing. An avid reader, he was particularly fond of westerns, mysteries, and anything related to World War II. David would never turn down a slice of black raspberry pie or a dish of ice cream. He married Barbara Kay Richards on August 24,1962, and they enjoyed nearly sixty-three years of companionship.

In addition to his family life, David took pride in his involvement with community organizations. He was a member and past president of the Rotary Club of North Manchester, as well as a member of the Izaak Walton League, the American Legion Post #286, and the NRA.

The loving memory of David Barnett will be cherished by his wife, Kay Barnett, North Manchester; children, Robin (Joe) Messer, North Manchester, and Darin (Michele) Barnett, North Manchester; and from his previous marriage Craig (Kim) Barnett; grandchildren, Jack Messer, Audrey (Adam) Schnelker, Ross Messer, Calvin Barnett, Claire Barnett, Cora Barnett, Josh Barnett, and Eric Zahler and five great grandchildren. David was preceded in death by his parents; brother and sister-in-law, Dalton J. and Ruth Ann Barnett; sisters, Joyce A. Overly and Rosemary Daigle; and granddaughter, Haeli Barnett.

Family and friends may call Saturday, July 19, 2025 from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the Walnut Street Church (Congregational Christian Church), 310 North Walnut Street, North Manchester, Indiana. Funeral services will begin at the conclusion of calling with Pastor Sebrena Cline and Pastor J.P. Freeman officiating. A private burial will be held at Fairview Cemetery in Servia, Indiana, at a later date.

For those who wish to honor the memory of David Barnett, memorial contributions may be made to Walnut Street Church, 310 North Walnut Street, North Manchester, Indiana 46962 or Izaak Walton League, c/o John Ingold, P.O. Box 254, North Manchester, Indiana 46962.

The family of David Barnett has entrusted McKee Mortuary with care and final arrangements.