It is with profound love, deep respect, and overwhelming sadness that we announce the passing of a remarkable man, Paul Elvin Barto, who left us Sunday, February 16, 2025.
Born September 4, 1937, to the late James and Cora Barto in Newburg, Paul was a charismatic soul who lived his life with unparalleled dedication and reliability.
He was a loving husband to his wife, Edith Barto, a cornerstone of their family, whom he cherished above all else.
He was a beacon of strength to his children, Penny (Nick) Kormylo, Sandra (Paul) Kokoska, Brenda (John) Haas, and Mark (Christy) Barto; and a source of wisdom and love to his grandchildren and great- grandchildren.
His siblings, Bill, Cookie, Theresa and Bob, will remember him as a steadfast brother, a pillar of support, and a friend as well as the “Best Looking Barto”.
He will also be missed by his long-time caregiver and friend, Kim Cooley; and his precious cat, “Star”.
In his work life, Paul was a dedicated timberman, working hard in the logging industry until his retirement. His work ethic was second to none and his commitment to his craft was a testament to his integrity and the value he placed on honest, hard work.
But beyond his professional commitments, Paul was a man who found joy in the simplest things. He had a fondness for tinkering in his garage, a hobby that often led to him helping his kids, family, friends and neighbors with their own projects. His dedication to family and community was unmatched and his home in Blacksville was a hub of warmth and love.
As Robert Louis Stevenson once said, “Don’t judge each day by the harvest you reap, but by the seeds that you plant,” and Paul planted many seeds of love and kindness throughout his life.
Paul was preceded in death by his parents, James and Cora Barto; his mother-in-law and father-in-law, Leo and Violet Watkins, with whom he had a very strong bond; his daughter, Brenda; and his grandson, Jacob. His siblings, Joe, Ronnie, Donnie, Jimmy, Faye, Mary and Barbara Jean also preceded him in death. Despite the sadness of his departure, we find comfort in knowing that he has reunited with them.
Today, we celebrate the life of a man who was not just loving, charismatic, dedicated and reliable, but was also a beacon of light in the lives of those who knew him.
In the words of Emily Dickinson, “Unable are the loved to die, for love is immortality.” Paul’s love will forever remain in our hearts, and his legacy will continue to inspire us. We invite you to share your memories and upload photos of Paul on the memorial page, as we remember and celebrate his extraordinary life.
At his request, no services are planned.
Smith Funeral & Cremation Care and SFCC Crematory of Westover (304-292-9494) is providing compassionate professional services to the family.
Condolences and other gifts of comfort may be offered at www.smithfcc.com
