Robert Newton Barry

Robert Newton "Newt" Barry, 93, of California, Missouri, passed away peacefully on Thursday, January 11, 2018 at Moniteau Care Center in California, Missouri. He was born on August 31, 1924 at Enon, Missouri. He was the son of David H. and Olda (Snodgrass) Barry, who preceded him in death. On October 17, 1945 in Kansas, he was united in marriage to Omega (Wood) Barry, who survives at Moniteau Care Center. Robert was known as "Bob" or "Newt". As a child and young adult, he was called "Newt" from his family, relatives, and longtime friends and acquaintance. Robert served his country during World War II as a rifleman and received the Victory Ribbon, European-African-Middle Eastern Theatre Ribbon, Purple Heart, two Bronze Stars and Good Conduct medal. He was stationed in Germany and France during his tour of duty. After returning from serving his country, he was employed by a building contractor in Jefferson City, Missouri. Robert later started his own construction company, Barry Construction, Inc., in California, Missouri, closing it about 10 years ago. Along with the construction business, he also continued farming. He always enjoyed talking and visiting with people and never met a stranger. Robert always had something to talk about. There was nothing he couldn't fix as long as he could work at the shop with his tools and equipment. He was an active member of the Moniteau County Democratic Central Committee for many years while also serving as chairman at different times during his longtime membership. He would frequently ask his wife to make cookies and coffee for the meetings. In 2005, Robert received the Dean Riley Award for outstanding services and loyalty in the Democrat Party presented by the Mid Missouri Democratic Club. He was also a member of Main Street Baptist Church, in California, Missouri where he was frequently seen passing out candy to children and wearing his beloved bow ties. In the fall during the local festivals, he enjoyed driving his golf cart while flying the American flag and passing out candy to the crowds. He always enjoyed family gatherings and was so proud of his grandchildren's accomplishments. Other survivors include two sons: Wayne Barry (Beverly) of Barnett, Mo. and Clyde Barry (Peggy) of California, Mo.; two daughters, Carol Newton (Bobby) of Eldon, Mo. and Lois Haile (Gene) of California, Mo; 11 grandchildren, Chad Barry (Andy), Shawn Barry (Jennifer), Scott Barry (Allison), Matt Barry, Josh Barry, Chris Newton (Mavis), Jason Newton, Neil Newton (Jodi), Crystal (Haile) Cook (David), Tony Haile (Christen) and Jennifer (Haile) Hopper (Kelly); and 11 great-grandchildren. The family will receive friends Saturday, January 27, 2018 from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. at Main Street Baptist Church of California, Missouri, with the funeral services beginning at 11:00 a.m. Interment will follow at Enloe Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to Gideons International. Online messages of condolence may be contributed at www.windmillridgefuneralservice.com.