Charles L. Barnhart

Charles Libby Barnhart, loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and neighborhood pillar of Careywood, Idaho passed away at the age of 79 on October 10, 2021, due to the complications of COVID pneumonia.  

Charles was born in Spokane, Washington, the fifth of 13 children, to Dempsey and Marion Barnhart on April 16, 1942.  He lived most of his life in the Sandpoint/Careywood area.  A logger at heart, he nearly died with his boots on, still operating his skidder and chain saw just a few days before his death. 

Charles served in the Army National Guard in the early 60’s, receiving his training at Fort Ord, California and additional garrison training in Fort Knox, Kentucky.  It is said of the infantry, “Wherever brave men fight and die for freedom, you will find me.  I am the bulwark of our nations defense.  I am always ready, now and forever.” 

Charles married Carol Ann McCormick of Adrian, Oregon, of June 14, 1969, and together they raised three children.  Beverly, Rachel and Eric, on their timber ranch on Huckleberry Mountain.  Charles was preceded in death by his parents, and five brothers – Benny, Paul, Davie, Phil, and John.  He is survived by his wife, of 52 years, three children, six grandchildren, seven siblings Gary, Bob, Jim, Dan, Mary, Tim, and Ruth.  Also surviving are numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

Charles regularly attended New Life Center in Sandpoint, Idaho, serving as elder for many years, and was loved and honored by his church family.  He never knew a stranger  (A stranger was a friend he had not met yet), and he never failed to share his love for Jesus Christ with an old or new acquaintance, telling them, “Jesus loves you!!”