Michael O. "Mike" Barnhardt's Obituary
Michael O. “Mike” Barnhardt, age 83, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, April 8, 2026, and will be greatly missed by his family. He was born on March 14, 1943, in Lima, Ohio, to David and Shirley (Kinzer) Barnhardt, but spent his childhood years on White Lake in Montague, MI. He was a proud graduate of Montague High School, Class of 1961, and was a longtime member of Ferry Memorial Reformed Church. Mike went on to dedicate 32 years of hard work to CWC Textron, where he was employed as a cam grinder until his retirement in 1995. On October 19, 1973, Mike married the love of his life, Sharon Rowe. Together they shared 50 wonderful years filled with love, laughter, and unwavering companionship. Sharon preceded him in death on September 5, 2024. Mike found great joy in life’s simple pleasures. He was an avid reader with a deep appreciation for Westerns—filling several bookshelves with his collections—and held a special admiration for John Wayne. He was an excellent history buff and also loved to collect baseball caps. In his younger years, he enjoyed camping, fishing, boating and spending time in the outdoors. Known for his knack for tinkering, Mike was especially skilled at working on bicycles and was always ready to lend a helping hand to those in need. He came from a long lineage of contractors/builders and was always excited about getting the latest ‘new tool’ on the market. He used these skills to build a home for his family. Above all, Mike treasured the time he spent with his family. His outgoing and welcoming nature made it easy for him to strike up a conversation with anyone, leaving a lasting impression on all who knew him. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by many. He is survived by his four children, Troy (Julie) Barnhardt, Michelle Colbert, Amy (Bob) Derby and Stacey (Joshua) Sopha; six grandchildren, Jessica (Tim) Wiseman, Robert (Kelsea) Derby, David (Jordyn) Derby, Jadyn Sopha, Trinity “Rain” Sopha and Kaia Barnhardt; brother, Jonathan “Pete” (Sharon) Barnhardt; sister, Jill (Ron) Hammock; sisters-in-law, Rita (Joe) Holub and Lorrie Rowe; brother-in-law, Brian (Millie) Rowe; numerous nieces and nephews; and extended family and friends. Mike was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Sharon Barnhardt; sister, Becky Kasch; sisters-in-law, Nancy Rowe and Joice (Curt) Masunas; and brothers-in-law, Richard Rowe, Edward “Butch” (Betty) Rowe and David Rowe. A Memorial Service will be held at 11:00 AM on Saturday, May 9, 2026, at Ferry Memorial Reformed Church, 8637 Old Channel Trail, Montague, MI 49437 with visitation one-hour prior at church. Memorial Contributions in Mike’s honor can be directed to St. Jude Research Children's Hospital. Arrangements entrusted to The Sytsema Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 737 E. Apple Ave., Muskegon, MI 49442. Share memories with the family at https://www.sytsemafh.com.
What’s your fondest memory of Michael?
What’s a lesson you learned from Michael?
Share a story where Michael's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Michael you’ll never forget.
How did Michael make you smile?
