Edward McKeny Barnett

This is to announce the peaceful passing of Edward McKeny Barnett, 98, devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and friend on Wednesday, October 29, 2025, in Battle Creek, Michigan.

Ed was born in Russell, Kentucky to Harry T. and Elizabeth (McKeny) Barnett, attending Lloyd Memorial High School in Erlanger, Kentucky. He earned his bachelor’s degree from Asbury College and his master’s from Purdue. He honorably served his country in the US Army, enlisting in June of 1945 when he was 17 years old. He was in the 101st Airborne Division and was stationed in Budingen, Germany during the post-World War II years. Ed also served during the Korean Conflict from 1950-51.

He met the love of his life, Nettie Lane, in chemistry class at Asbury College. They began dating when she invited him to the Sadie Hawkins Dance. They married on December 17, 1949. That began an epic love story lasting through almost 76 years of marriage.

Ed’s happiest times were found in the moments he shared with his family. He found true joy in the laughter around the dinner table, the stories told on quiet evenings and the love that filled his home. To Ed, family wasn't just important - it was everything.

Surviving are wife Nettie B. Barnett, children David (Linda) Barnett, Daniel (Kristen) Barnett and Nanci (David) Linke. The family also includes grandchildren Benjamin (Teresa) Barnett, Abigail (Jack) Barnett Wessel, Andy (Jessica) Linke, Kelly (Bill) Linke Lapham, Savanna Barnett Graham, Jesse Barnett and Cody Barnett as well as seven great-grandchildren: Jackson, Josephine, Allie, Charlie, Avaline, Ash, and Margo, and brother Frank Barnett. He was preceded in death by his parents and two brothers, David and Harry.

Ed taught Biology at Battle Creek Central High School, then became a game conservation officer for the State of Illinois. He returned to Battle Creek as an Anatomy and Human Physiology instructor at Kellogg Community College for 28 years, retiring in 1989.

Ed had a great passion for the outdoors throughout his entire life. He hunted, he fished, he trained dogs, went birding, boating and backpacking. He spent countless hours in nature. Ed enjoyed imparting his enthusiasm to his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. They have precious memories of his efforts.

With Nettie, Ed was an active member of Christ United Methodist Church in Urbandale since 1961, where he was involved in numerous committees, was a trustee, a member of the Finance Committee and a lay speaker.

Ed loved God, his family, his church and his friends. He exemplified what it means to be a good Christian. He was kind and thoughtful and had quite a sense of humor. Ed was the patriarch of his family and will be forever in their thoughts and prayers.

Friends will be received on Tuesday, November 4 from 5:00-7:00 pm at Farley Estes Dowdle Funeral Cremation Preneed Care, where the funeral will take place there on Wednesday, November 5 at 11:30 am. Military honors will be provided by Fort Custer National Cemetery Honor Guard and the U.S. Army Honor Guard at 1:00 pm on Wednesday, November 5, at Fort Custer National Cemetery. The service will be live-streamed and may be viewed by visiting - https://vimeo.com/event/5487240

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105 or to Cross Bridge Hospice, 4595 Broadmoor Ave. S.E., Suite 130. Kentwood, MI 49512.

Personal messages for the family may be placed here at www.farleyestesdowdle.com.