In Memoriam Robert (Bob) W. Barnitz 1932-2026

Robert W. (Bob) Barnitz, 94, Mason, WV went home to be with the Lord on Monday, October 5, 2026 surrounded by the love of his family. Bob was born May 10, 1932 in Letart Falls, Ohio to the late W.O. and Ruth (Alexander) Barnitz. He was the youngest of 8 children.

He was a graduate of Pomeroy High School Class of 1950, where he played both football and basketball. After graduating, Bob attended the Ohio State University for one year where he made it to the final cut for the basketball team. He then joined the United States Air Force and served his country during the Korean War. His service took him around the world, including time spent in Japan and Guam.

Bob was a familiar face in the community. Along with his beloved wife, Corena, he founded Bob's Market & Greenhouses, Inc. in 1970. While Bob was proud of the business he built, he was most proud of his five sons and his large family. He could often be heard telling friends and acquaintances that he had 15 grandchildren and 24 great-grandchildren, all of whom he greatly adored and loved. He found great joy in following their sports and activities.

Bob was an avid sports fan and a devoted supporter of Wahama athletics. He served as the Wahama High School Athletic Boosters president during his sons' high school years. He was a devoted fan of the Cincinnati Reds, Cleveland Browns, and the Ohio State Buckeyes.

Although Bob's greatest pride and joy was his family, he was also a successful businessman. His integrity, attention to detail, and dedication to serving his customers were hallmarks of his career. These same values were passed down to his sons. Bob often gave credit for his success to his many devoted and dedicated employees, whom he considered family.

Bob was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 61 years, Corena, in 2021; his parents, W.O. and Ruth Barnitz; his brother, Hayman; and his sisters, Bernice, Judy, Thanet, Wilma, Elnora and Billie Jean.

He is survived by his five sons, William "Bobby" (Susan), Eric ""Rick" (Lisa), Alex "Scott" (Anna), Jeff (Corinna),and John (Leah). Also, his 15 grandchildren, Eric (Dana), Tony (Jodi), Alan (Beth), Hollie (Jason), Alicia (Adam), Holt (Lex), Brice (Paula), Brogan (Michael), Teran, Madison (Isaac), A'leisia, Reece (Gavin), Kamryn, Mason, and Blake, and his 24 great-grandchildren include Ethyn (Pheobe). Ashton, Eli (Kate), Jayla (Chandler), Payton, Laney, Cyrus, Trace, Aly, Ellie, Judah, Ryan, River, Amos, Jordan, Elias, Myles, Amelia, Aaron, Hutch, Luella, Rowan, Margot, and Duncan, brother-in-law Howard McMillion, sisters-in-laws Opal Hughes, and Vera McMillion.

The family wishes to thank the management and staff of Bob Evans in Mason for their welcoming service to Bob every day. Additionally, heartfelt gratitude goes out to Carrie Kennedy for her loving care of Bob throughout the past years.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Wahama Athletic Boosters, PO Box 127, Mason, WV 25260.

Bob leaves behind a legacy of love, family, hard work, service, and dedication that will live on through the many lives he touched. He will be deeply missed by his family. friends, employees, and the community he proudly called home. His greatest legacy was not what he built, but the family, friendships, and memories he leaves behind.

Service will be 2 p.m., Wednesday, October 7, 2026, at Northbend Church, Mason, WV, with Pastor Jason Simpkins officiating. Burial will follow in the Kirkland Memorial Gardens, Point Pleasant, WV. Visitation will be from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m., Wednesday, October 7, 2026, at the church. Military honors will be provided by VFW Post # 9926 Mason, WV, American Legion Post #140 New Haven, WV and VFW Post # 0039 Pomeroy, OH.