Obituary of Kenneth Lee Barthelman

Kenneth Lee (“Bart”) Barthelman, 74, of Newton, was born April 30, 1949, in Oskaloosa, Iowa. After attending Newton High School, he graduated from Iowa State University. (Go Clones!) Kenneth passed away on Friday morning, June 23, 2023, at MercyOne Medical Center in Des Moines. On November 14, 1970, Kenneth was united in marriage with Joni J. Cory. Subsequently, Kenneth, Joni, and their two sons moved from Newton, Iowa, to Wichita, Kansas, so that Kenneth could explore new business opportunities, eventually starting his own decal business. After spending 35 years in Wichita, he chose to return home to Newton, in order to take on a role as Executive Director of the Jasper County Historical Museum. Kenneth devoted his life to his family, enjoyed music (particularly Bob Dylan), Iowa State sports, and St. Louis Cardinals baseball. (Go Cards!) He was preceded in death by his parents, Dwight E. and Pauline L. Barthelman (née Molyneux), and a sister in infancy, Joy K. Barthelman. Those left to honor Kenneth’s memory include his wife, Joni; his sons, Zachary L. and Dwight; his brothers, Randy and Ronald; and his extended family and friends. A celebration of life for Kenneth will be held at a later date, per his wishes, with a burial of his cremains in Union Chapel Cemetery near Ira, Iowa. The Pence ~ Reese Funeral Home, in Newton, is handling the arrangements. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be designated to Kenneth’s family to aid with burial expenses.