Kathleen Barnhart, 82, of La Fontaine, passed away at 4:14 pm on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, at Rolling Meadows Health & Rehabilitation Center in La Fontaine. She was born on
December 3, 1943, to Benjamin and Ellen (Bettenhausen) Strobel.
Kathleen graduated from Colville Senior High School and later attended Whitworth University, pursuing her education major. Over the years she lived in many places including Winona Lake, Indiana; Toppenish, Washington; Lynchburg, Virginia; Knoxville and Dayton, Tennessee; and Moscow, Idaho.
She spent several years working as a librarian, including time at the Marion Public Library. Kathleen was a longtime member of Liberty Baptist Church in Sweetser, where she joyfully served in many capacities-playing bass guitar, piano, and providing music for seniors in nursing homes. She also shared her gift as a sign language interpreter and participated in church music ministries.
She loved music of all kinds and delighted in sharing it with others. Creative and endlessly resourceful, Kathleen enjoyed gardening, quilting, and sewing. She was well‑known for her elaborate Christmas light displays, with Kathleen programming what became one of the first large‑scale, computer‑controlled Christmas displays in 1986. Earlier in life she also refinished furniture, a hobby that showcased her patience and craftsmanship. Kathleen had a tender spot for animals-especially cats-and was known for welcoming strays that found their way to her door.
She is survived by her son, Jonathan Barnhart of Marion, IN; and her daughter, Kriss Barnhart and son-in-law Jon Rothberg of Somerville, MA.
She was preceded in death by her mother, Ellen Strobel; her father, Benjamin Strobel; and her brother, Rick Strobel.
The family will receive visitors from 9 am to 11 am on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, at Liberty Baptist Church, 517 Church St, Sweetser, IN 46987.
Immediately following visitation, a service celebrating Kathleen’s life will begin at 11 am, with Pastor Terry Bishir officiating. Burial will take place at Grant Memorial Park.
Arrangements are entrusted to Needham-Storey-Wampner Funeral & Cremation Services, North Chapel, 1341 N. Baldwin Ave., Marion, IN.
Memories and condolences may be shared online at www.nswcares.com.
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