Leroy TenBarge, 80, passed away at his residence on Friday (March 4, 2016) in rural Walton.

Leroy was born on Sept. 10, 1935, in rural Cheney to Albert and Rose (Klein) TenBarge.

Leroy was a retired Captain for the Newton Fire Department. Once retired, he farmed and raised cattle.

He enjoyed camping, fishing and being in the outdoors and he was an avid fan of Notre Dame and Kansas State football, as well as University of Kansas basketball.

Leroy also had several classic cars, including 1970 and 1971 Monte Carlos, a 1961 Nova and a 1931 Model A.

Leroy and his wife Joan were married for sixteen years. When they combined their families they had six children, and were later blessed with nine grandchildren and fourteen great grandchildren.

Leroy is survived by his wife: Joan (Folsom) TenBarge; children/step-children: Matthew TenBarge, Rick and Cindy Kleck, Karen and Jack Houseberg, Diane and Joey Char, Cheryl and Lonny Rains, and Cindy and Keith Swonger; sisters: Marilyn Novak, Janie Cheatum and Betty Jo and Duane Chichester.

He was preceded in death by his parents: Albert and Rose TenBarge; brothers: Bill and John TenBarge; and sister: Delores Lamb.

Funeral services are planned for 2 p.m. Friday, March 11, at the Eastside United Methodist Church of Newton. A visitation will be held from 5 to 9 p.m. on Thursday, March 10, at Petersen Funeral Home, with the family present from 6 to 8 p.m. A graveside committal will follow the service at Walton Cemetery.

Leroy had been ill for several years prior to his death. He will be remembered for his public service and leadership as a fire fighter, love for his family, and his love for the outdoors and nature.

A memorial has been established for Eastside United Methodist Church, 1520 East Broadway, Newton, Kansas 67114.