Jon Barth

Jon R. Barth, age 65 of Darlington, WI, passed away Friday, January 21, 2022, with his family by his side. Jon was born in Darlington on April 16, 1956, to Richard and Elizabeth (Talbert) Barth. The eldest child and only son in a family with ten children, Jon often fulfilled the roles of helper, instigator, and resident night owl. Growing up on the family farm in Darlington, he was a lead character in many hilarious (and sometimes dangerous) Barth kid hijinks stories. Jon graduated from Darlington High School in 1974 and went on to obtain his Associates Degree in Automotive Technology from Southwest Technical College in Fennimore, WI. A skilled machinist, he held several jobs throughout his life and most recently spent 22 years with Darlington Dairy Supply.Jon was a passionate, talented photographer who enjoyed annual trips to photograph the EAA airshow in Oshkosh, WI. All who knew Jon also knew his love of motorcycles. He avidly explored destinations near and far from home, including taking young nieces and nephews on adventurous motorcycle rides around the yard. Jon considered his friends part of his family and formed many strong bonds throughout his life. His heart of gold and sense of humor were equally matched. He was always ready to help others in their times of need while also finding ways to mischievously crack jokes and prank family and friends. One particular little girl had Jon wrapped around her finger - his great-niece Collins. He adored Collins and would do anything for her. He was her dedicated coloring buddy, made sure she had an ample supply of snacks, and saved up all his loose change for her to put in her own bank. Jon will be sadly missed and fondly remembered by all who loved and cared for him. Memories of his booming voice, quick smirk, and raised eyebrow will live on in his absence alongside the knowledge he generously passed to others and an endless supply of treasured stories.Jon is survived by his mother Elizabeth of Darlington; his sisters: Jan (Dick) Hendrickson of Shullsburg, WI; Jill (Duane) Gindt of Boyd, WI, Jeri (Dan) Fabian of Stillwater, MN, Jaci (Greg) Johnson of Darlington, Jodi (Steve) Welsh of Mineral Point, WI, Juli (Tony) Muhlstein of Darlington, Joni (Jack) Flesher of Brodhead, WI, Judi (Steve) Carey of Darlington, and Jennifer (Mark Johnson) Brandt of Wiota, WI; and his nieces and nephews: Nathan, Jamie, Jena, Jared, Jordan, Ryan, Lauren, Maverick, Ben, Logan, Chloe, Lexi, Abby, Alysa, Levi, Kade, and Sydney; and that one very special great-niece: Collins. He was preceded in death by his father; and a niece and nephew: Alex and Alexandra Welsh.A private family memorial service will be held Friday, January 28, 2022, at Holy Rosary Catholic Church in Darlington with Rev. Luke Syse officiating. Burial will be in Union Grove Cemetery. The Erickson Funeral Home in Darlington is serving the family. Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.ericksonfuneralhome.com.A public celebration of Jon's life will be held at a later date at Ripper's in Belmont, WI.For those who prefer, a memorial fund has been established in Jon's name.