George Hardy Barnard's Obituary
George Hardy Barnard passed away on May 8, 2021 at his Salt Lake City home. He was a loving and devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather who will be missed beyond measure.
George was born December 26, 1939 to John Hampton Barnard and Ethel (Hardy) Barnard in Shreveport, Louisiana. The family later traveled to Texas, Oklahoma, and Ohio before returning to settle for good in Oklahoma.
George enlisted in the Air Force immediately after high school and was stationed in Goose Bay, Labrador, Canada after basic training. His next assignment took him to Denver, Colorado, where he met the beautiful Betty Jo Cochran on his very first day.
George and Betty were married on May 19, 1961 in Denver. They were later sealed for eternity in the Logan, Utah Temple on April 16, 1963.
George’s greatest accomplishments revolved around his family. After his discharge from the Air Force, he and Betty moved to Oklahoma where they raised four children. They lived in Tulsa, Collinsville, and finally settled in the small town of Oologah. Each of the children have happy memories of family campouts and adventures together. George spent his career as an airline mechanic for American Airlines while continuing his military service in the Air National Guard.
George was a faithful member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. After his retirement, George and Betty served multiple senior missions helping with temple and family history work.
George was a hard worker and never shirked an opportunity to serve a friend or a neighbor. He was well known for his honesty and integrity. George was always organized and prepared for any job or unexpected event. He was proud of his children and grandchildren and his joy extended to even greater heights with the birth of each of his great grandchildren.
George was preceded in death by his parents, his brother, John, his sister, Beverly Clare, a son-in-law, Jim Morrison, and a granddaughter, Natalie Barnard. He is survived by his wife, Betty Barnard, and his four children: Bryon (Deborah), Gary (Merchy), Janice Morrison, and Cynthia Ruble (Bryon). He also leaves fifteen grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren.
Funeral services will be held at 11:00 am, Monday, May 17, 2021 in the chapel at Utah Veterans Memorial Park, 17111 South Redwood Road, Bluffdale, Utah. Interment to follow.
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