Reuben H. Barnhart III

Reuben H. Barnhart, Ill, 76, passed away Saturday, December 9, 2023 in Fairhope, Alabama surrounded by his loving family.  He was born September 24, 1947 in Oregon, Illinois the son of Reuben and Delores (Boyden) Barnhart, Jr.  He graduated from Oregon High School in 1965 where he met his wife-to-be, Mary F. Dirksen. They were married March 19, 1966 in Oregon, IL. Reuben worked for Quaker Oats/Golden Grain for most of his working life, and as a journeyman electrician. After retiring, Mary and Reuben moved back to their hometown of Oregon, Illinois, after moving away for his career.  When he was younger, Reuben's hobbies included being a volunteer fireman, hunting and fishing. Later in life he enjoyed woodworking and golfing. His family was always his first priority. His grandchildren were his and Mary’s greatest pride and joy. He is predeceased by his parents Reuben and Delores Barnhart, Jr., and his loving wife Mary. He is survived by his 3 children Lisa (David) Boehle of Oregon, IL; Reuben "Andy"& Kathy Wilkinson (fiancé) of Robertsdale, AL; Diana (Chris) Weber of Clearwater, FL.; grandchildren: Megan (Adam) Bettner; Nik, Hunter and Andrew Barnhart; Allison and Katelyn Weber; great grandson Tate Bettner; honorary grandchildren Bre Wilson and Kaylee Howard; brother Tim (Lisa) Barnhart of Golf Shores, Alabama; sister Beth (Steve) DuBois of Eldridge, Iowa; and many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, and nephews.  Funeral service will be held 10:00 AM, Saturday, December 16, 2023 at the Farrell-Holland-Gale Funeral Home, 110 S. 7^th Street, Oregon, Illinois with the Pastor Nathan Massie officiating. The Oregon Fire Protection District will have the Ringing of the Bell service immediately following the funeral service. Visitation will be held Friday evening from 5:00 PM – 7:30 PM at the funeral home.  Burial will follow the service at Riverview Cemetery with the Oregon VFW providing Military Honors.  A memorial fund is established in Reuben’s name for the Oregon Fire Protection District and the Oregon VFW Post 8739.