Joseph Charlie Barrow, (Joe Cool), passed away on Monday, May 23, 2016, surrounded by his family at Lakeland Nursing Home in Angola, Indiana. He was 77. Joseph was born to Richard and Virginia (Ort) Barrow on November 8, 1938 in Woodburn, Indiana. Joe graduated from Central High School in Fort Wayne, Indiana, in 1957. After graduation, Joe joined the Army. He married Kathleen Prairie on June 29, 1957, and she survives in Fremont. Joe was a diesel mechanic, but made his career driving semis for over 50 years with HWI, International Harvester and Consolidated Freightways. He retired from his career driving, then he worked part time for the Town of Fremont as a Crossing Guard. He retired as a Crossing Guard in 2015.
In addition to his love of being a Crossing Guard, Joe loved IU Basketball and the Indianapolis Colts Football. He and his wife, Kathy, watched the games together. Joe enjoyed spending time with his wife of 59 years, dog, Rusty, and three daughters along with his grandchildren. He was a member of the Fremont American Legion and the Fremont United Methodist Church. Joe will most notably be remembered for his love of life and his sense of humor. He loved to laugh and make people laugh as well.
Joe is survived by his wife, Kathy of Fremont, three daughters, Teri (Rick) Steele of Fremont, Deanna (Tim) Sheaks of Fremont and Diana (Brad) Buroker of Fishers, Indiana; four grandchildren, Justin and LorAnn Steele, Brett and Tammy Steele, Bethanny and David Lauermann and Brittany and Adam Breiner; ten great-grandchildren, Aubrey, Reagen, Emerson, Ava, Addyson, Alayna, Aidan, Hadleigh, Hudson and Haddon; two sisters, Marsha (Doug) Howell of Huntertown, Indiana and Janine Knapp of Fort Wayne, Indiana, along with several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and one brother-in-law, Barry Knapp.
A celebration of life for Joseph C. Barrow will be celebrated on Saturday, June 4, 2016 at the Fremont American Legion, beginning at 11:30 a.m. with Adam Breiner officiating. Arrangements are under the care of Oberlin-Turnbull Funeral Home, Hamilton, Indiana.
Those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider memorial contributions be made to the Fremont United Methodist Church or the Steuben County Humane Shelter.
Condolences may be sent to the family or the online guest book may be signed at www.oberlinturnbull.com