Willard Eugene Barton, 80, Minot and formerly of Zahl, died on Thursday, July 23, 2009, in a Bismarck hospital.

Willie was born on Aug. 21, 1928, in Williston, to John L. and Audrey (Innis) Barton. He was reared in Zahl and graduated from Zahl High School. He enlisted in the U.S. Army on June 30, 1946, and received his honorable discharge on Aug. 31, 1966. While in the Army he received the World War II Victory Medal, German Occupation Medal, Good Conduct Medal with a bronze clasp and 4 loops. He served in the supply section, but spent the largest part of his military career as a mess sergeant. He was the mess sergeant for the unit that helped to desegregate the schools in Little Rock, Ark.

After his discharge he spent most of his life in the Minot area where he was employed as a civil service employee chef at Minot Air Force Base for five years. Also, he was employed as a custodian at North Hill Bowl, Barley Pop and Starlite Club. In addition, he attended Minot State University where he earned two degrees one of which was in criminal justice.

Willard was an avid sports fan, bowler, horse racing fan and especially enjoyed gardening and could often be seen biking around Minot. There was nothing he enjoyed more than watching a good sports contest with his friends.

Survivors include his sister: Gladys (Victor) Gibbins of Bismarck; nieces and nephews: Darcy and Darren Gibbins, Danell Blaskey and Dawn Gibbins as well as his special friends Sheila Meyer, Ken Triplett and Rickey "Six Pack" Olson.

Willie was preceded in death by his parents, and a sister Barbara Hart.

Funeral Service: Wednesday, July 29, 2009 at 10 a.m. in Thomas Family Funeral Home Chapel, Minot.

Graveside Service: Wednesday at 3 p.m. in the North Dakota Veterans Cemetery, rural Mandan.

Visitation: Tuesday from 2 until 7 p.m. in Thomas Family Funeral Home, Minot.

Those wanting to sign the online memorial register or share memories and condolences are invited to use the expressions of sympathy section at (www.thomasfamilyfuneralhome.com).