Steve is preceded in death by his parents, Arthur and Betty Barnett, his sister; Laurie Thomas, his brother; Timothy Barnett, his daughter; Abigail Barnett and his nephew; Ory Barnett.
Steve is survived by his wife; Patricia Barnett, son; Anthony (Stacy) Ellis, daughters; J’amie Ellis, Kathleen (Martin) Eden, Jon-Steven (Holly) Barnett, 7 grandchildren, his brother; Arthur (Peggy) Barnett and his sister; Margaret (Wilbur) Buehler, and many nieces and nephews.
Steve was a proud retired Navy Chief and a Diver for the U.S. Navy for over 20 years. He was a Master-at-Arms at the Naval Submarine Base New London and a Company Commander and Instructor at Naval Station Great Lakes.
He spent over 20 years working for Schneider National, winning the “driver of the year” award, which was a huge accomplishment.
Since high school, he had a competitive spirit and a love for swimming. He was a very strong swimmer and diver and became a state medalist on several different occasions. This ultimately led to his interest in becoming a Navy Diver.
He had a passion for biking. After a terrifying accident that ripped all the ligaments and muscles in his shoulder he rode from Rhode Island to Michigan. Even during his 9 year battle against cancer he got back on his bike and traveled around Spring Lake.
He loved to watch birds, his favorite, cardinals. During the end of his life, bird watching became his source of entertainment. He made sure the cardinals had safflower and black oil sunflower seeds, their favorite. He also made sure he had shelled peanuts for the blue jays and titmice.
Steve was successful at everything he did in life. He was determined to always fight hard in every aspect of his life and any challenge he may have faced. He had a sense of humor and loved to make others laugh. He loved his family and especially his grandchildren. Steve was an incredibly awesome man who faced his life challenges with courage and bravery. He will be missed by many.
A Graveside Service with Military Honors will be taking place on Friday, April 16th at 10:30 AM at Spring Lake Cemetery, 17181 N Fruitport Rd., Spring Lake, MI 49456.
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