William David ("Dave") Barton, age 60, passed away peacefully in Mercy Hospital Springfield on the afternoon of March 26, 2023.
While completing high school requirements, Dave went to work for John Youngblood Motors in Springfield, MO. He continued to hone his automotive mechanical skills and eventually became shop manager for Youngblood Nissan. After leaving the automotive industry, Dave worked briefly at Mercy Hospital Springfield, prior to becoming "Mr. Mom" to his niece Abbey. After Abbey was raised, Dave found time to assist and manage operations on the McDaniel family farm. He took immense pride in raising quality Limousin beef cattle. Dave studied and continued to make plans for future farm projects and initiatives that would allow us to "work smarter not harder." In addition to being a mechanical genius when it came to cars and other machinery, Dave's hobbies included gardening (vegetables and flowers), bird watching, caring for rescue dogs, and watching westerns on TV.
Dave was the patriarch of the family and will be remembered for his strong work ethic, integrity, quick wit, and happy go lucky personality. He could talk to anyone! From humble beginnings to life challenges and health adversities, Dave stayed positive, never gave up, and was driven to keep fighting the good fight. In both life and death, Dave had a big heart that loved large and by actions not just words. He was a believer in people and the greater good, and worried about taking care of others before himself. He always had a soft spot for any child or animal, especially those in need.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Shelia (Rector) Gooch and William E. Barton, stepfather John Gooch, his brother Douglas Barton, and in-laws Albert and Peggy McDaniel.
Survivors include his wife of 22 years, Carrie (McDaniel) Barton; special nieces Abbey Gomes (raised in the home) and husband Ben of St. Louis, MO, and Laurel Durst and husband Ryan of Emporia, KS; loyal and faithful companions, Charlie and Cleo; sister Deanna Barton, Springfield, MO; brothers: Jody Barton of Springfield, MO, Jamie Skidmore of Republic, MO, and Jonathan Gooch; aunt Brenda Betz and husband Scott of Springfield, MO, as well as numerous in-laws, nieces and nephews.
The family is most grateful and appreciative of the care provided to Dave for thirty plus years by Dr. Dominic Meldi of Mercy Hospital Springfield.
In lieu of plants/flowers, please consider a donation in Dave's memory to the Southwest Missouri Humane Society or The Marfan Foundation, or just perform a random act of kindness.
Live Like Dave!!!