Larry Gene Barton

Larry Gene Barton “Lare Bear,” age 76, formerly of Oakfield, WI and a proud US Army veteran, who served in Vietnam and Germany has gone to his heavenly home on Saturday, January 22, 2022. He was born July 29, 1945, the first set of triplets born at Waukesha Hospital, to Frank and Cecelia (Peterson) Barton. He leaves behind his loving wife Marsha; four children, Chad, Shayne (Aubrey), Ryan (Melissa), and Alyssa; two grandchildren, Taliah and Uriah; and other relatives.



Larry has always marched to the beat of his own drum in many aspects of his life, and always saw “NO” as a challenge accepted. He sought joy in his craftmanship through many different avenues throughout the years, such as his family business, woodworking and his passion for antiques and oddities. It was an endless source of joy for him, leading to his beloved Rustic Revival business, repurposing and reinventing trinkets and treasures into artful lights that were sure to brighten anyone’s space. While the rest of the world saw his works as art, he himself was always stunned when someone referred to his pieces as art. Claiming he wasn’t an artist – “he could barely draw a stick figure.”



Everything Larry did was for his family; his kids were his pride and joy. His marriage to Marsha of 46 years, was long, loving and robust.



When not found constructing something or waking up early you could find Larry camping, outdoors or fishing. He loved his plants, orchids, and birds, and often spoke “nicely” to his plants that needed some extra love. He’d stroke their leaves lovingly convincing them to keep pushing through, just like him.



Honorable mention goes to his red truck that he coveted, a gift from Marsha, to pull their vintage camper. The two traveled the Midwest, attending several vintage camping rallies, winning awards and revving his engine wherever he went.



Larry had the gift of gab and was always willing to share stories with anyone with ears. He never let grass grow under his feet and was always looking forward to what’s next.



If desired, friends may make memorial contributions to a local veteran’s organization in Larry’s name. The family would like to express our thanks to everyone who has reached out, prayed and sent love and light to Larry and co. throughout this difficult time.



A celebration of life will be hosted in spring to properly and safely celebrate Larry’s life. We encourage you to join at that time.



He will be sadly missed by many. As Larry would say, “Git R Done!”



Services are in the care of Uecker-Witt Funeral Home, 524 North Park Avenue, Fond du Lac, WI, 54935. Additional information and guestbook can be found at ueckerwitt.com