Alden D. Barnard I

Alden David Barnard I, a man of many talents and many friends, died Tuesday, August 4, 2020, in Lansing. Alden, 83, of Charlotte, was born December 12, 1936, in Fowlerville, the son of Harry Lorenzo and Irene Mae (Blair) Barnard. He graduated from Charlotte High School in 1956 before enlisting in the U.S. Army. Following his discharge, he worked briefly as a nurse at the Battle Creek VA Hospital. Throughout his life, Alden pursued many careers. He worked at GM before shifting gears and owning his own group home, where he took care of veterans and those in need from 1972-1979. He then moved to Bradenton, FL, where he opened his own floral shop for a few years. Then it was on to Indianapolis, where he owned his own party store and bar. Finally, he returned home to Michigan, where he helped his friend with a bar and restaurant in Lake Odessa. Upon his retirement, he took to his favorite hobbies, especially creating beautiful works of crochet and macramé, including afghans and doilies. He enjoyed time outdoors mowing the lawn, or travelling up north to St. Ignace and Crystal Falls, or over to “Paradise,” by Hickory Corners. Throughout the years his sons were growing up, the family always made month-long sojourns to the Upper Peninsula and other points of natural beauty in Northern Michigan. Alden will be remembered and missed by a large host of friends and family.
Alden is survived by his sons, Alden David (Julia) Barnard II, Bradley Alan (Chris) Barnard, and Eric Leslie Barnard; and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents; his 8 siblings, Harry Jr., Marie, Darwin, Norlene, Barb, Dorene, Marshall, and Dean; and special family friend, Lee Oxendale.
A memorial service will take place at a later date, once gathering restrictions are relaxed. In the meantime, interment will take place at Maple Hill Cemetery in Charlotte with Alden’s niece, Ruby Saunders officiating. Memorial donations may be made to any local VA charity of one’s choice. Service updates and condolences will be available on Alden’s Tribute Page at PrayFuneral.com. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.