WLKM Radio 95.9 FM
Ardis Louise Barnebee, age 90, of rural Mendon, died Wednesday, June 17, 2020 at her home. She was born in Leonidas on July 29, 1929 the daughter of Lloyd E. and Elda M. (Hagelgans) Outman. She graduated from Colon High School where she was Vice President her senior year and was a D.A.R. Good Citizen. Ardis was married to Richard Lee Barnebee on Sept. 16, 1950 in Leonidas. Together they raised their children and operated a farm north of Leonidas. She was a member of the Leonidas Bible Church where she was a Deaconess and taught Sunday School. She worked briefly at Fairview Nursing Home, and for many years was a custodian at Colon Schools. Ardis loved to read, especially historical novels. She had a special appreciation for gardening and nature which she passed down to her children and grandchildren.
Ardis is survived by three daughters, Faith (Ronald) Taylor of Sturgis, Joy Vosburg, and Jean (Brett) Johnson both of Mendon; six grandchildren, Shaunna (Dennis) Saxman, Gabriel (Rita) Taylor, Shadric Vosburg, Shellie Bush, Amie Vosburg, and Angie Vosburg; twelve great-grandchildren, Anna, Ethan, Isabelle, Livi, Morgan, Owen, Gavin, Samantha, Makayla, Abigail, Madison, and Max; a sister, Arlene Collins of Leonidas; and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Richard in 2012; a sister, Doris Meyer; and six brothers, Harold, Leon, LeRoy, Wayne, Stanley, and Lyle Outman.
There will be a viewing from 12 to 1 pm Monday, June 22, 2020 at the Crossroads Missionary Church in Mendon. Due to the pandemic, masks and distancing will be required. Funeral services will begin at 1 pm Monday at the church and will be limited to family. Her nephew, Rev. Cutis Bennet will officiate. Public burial will be in Beard Cemetery. It is suggested that memorial contributions be directed to either the Colon Elementary Library, 328 E. State St., Colon, MI 49040 or to Hospice Care of Southwest Michigan, 222 N. Kalamazoo Mall, Kalamazoo, MI 49001. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family at www.eickhofffuneralhome.com
