Michael Seymour Barnhart

Michael Seymour Barnhart, beloved husband, father, grandfather and a valued and cherished friend to many, left this world unexpectedly Monday, Feb. 21, 2011 at the age of 61. Mike was born Aug. 20, 1949 to Richard Millen Barnhart Sr. and Ruth Seymour White Barnhart. He was preceded in death by his parents and a God-child, Cameron Benzinger Hall. He is survived by his wife, Julie Ellwood Barnhart of Dahlonega; a brother, Richard Millen Barnhart Jr., San Juan Island, Washington; two sisters, Lyn B. Noel and Elaine Boyd and her husband, Jack, all of Ligonier, Penn.; daughter and son-in-law Lorraine and Randy Evans of Dahlonega; granddaughters Summer Barnhart and Ashley Evans; several nieces, nephews, and grand-nieces and nephews, including special nephew Scott Boyd, who Mike thought of as a son; and God-children Jeremy and Dylan Hall. Mike came to Lumpkin County 20 years ago from his home in Pennsylvania. He served in the U.S. Marine Corp and was an electrician by trade. He was an avid fisherman, hunter and horseshoe player. He loved and was a good steward of his land and considered himself blessed to live surrounded by the woods he loved. Most of all, he loved his family and friends, and made it evident by the countless small kindnesses he performed throughout his life. He will be sorely missed. A memorial service will be held Saturday, Feb. 26 at 2 p.m. at Dahlonega Funeral Home. A celebration of his life at the Barnhart home will follow the service.