Kenneth Merle Barner, was born on April 14, 1939, on his parents' farm in Nittany, PA, passed away on August 31, 2023, surrounded by the love of his family. He was one of ten children, and his life was a testament to the values of family, friendship, and the joy of connecting with others.
Ken's journey began in a bustling household filled with siblings who would become his lifelong companions. He graduated from Bellefonte School in 1957, marking the beginning of a journey that would see him touch the lives of countless individuals.
For many years, Ken embarked on a career in selling electronic components, a profession he embraced with dedication and passion. He served this industry faithfully until his retirement in 2018, leaving a legacy of hard work and integrity that will long be remembered.
Ken's greatest joy in life was his family. He was blessed to share his life with his loving and devoted wife, Susan Larkin Barner, with whom he built a life filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories.
Ken's children, Courtney Barner, Terri Bee Barner, Chris (Jennifer) Waxler, Meg (Ashley) Singletary, Valerie Barner, and Rodney Barner, were his pride and joy. His grandchildren, Duncan (Alessia) Barner, Jackson (August) Singletary, and Zachary Stahl, and his great-grandchildren, Hayden and Nolan Stahl, brought immeasurable happiness to his heart.
He was predeceased by his parents, Harry Boyd Barner and Verna Heeman Barner, as well as his sister Florence (Eddie) Litz and brothers Barney, Harry, Mahlon (Christine), Bob (Jeannie), and Gerald. Ken's memory will be cherished by his surviving brother, Barry (Ilene), sisters, Joyce (Buck) Fetzer, Barbara (John) Brouse, and sister-in-law, Betty Barner, along with numerous nieces and nephews.
Ken had an innate ability to connect with people. He never met a stranger and cherished both lifelong friends and the opportunity to make new ones. In his early years, he loved playing softball, baseball, and turkey hunting. In his later years, he took up golf, finding joy and camaraderie on the greens. His passion for sports extended to eagerly anticipating each Penn State Football season, a tradition he treasured.
Ken's heart was brimming with anticipation as he looked forward to welcoming his great-granddaughter, Larkin Bee Singletary, into the world. His legacy of love, laughter, and friendship will forever live on in the hearts of those he touched. He will be dearly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. As we say our farewells, let us celebrate the life he lived and the love he shared with us all.
A graveside service will be held at a later date at Snydertown Cemetery, Centre County, PA.
