Harold Edward Barnard

Harold E. Barnard, 74, passed peacefully into the arms of his Lord and Savior on February 8, 2026. Born on May 20, 1951, in Elyria, Ohio, he was the son of Cecil and Catherine (Wohlever) Barnard. Harold’s life was a true reflection of his Christian faith—he served faithfully in his church, cared deeply for others, and lived each day with gratitude and humility.

A proud graduate of Elyria High School, Class of 1969, Harold went on to earn his degree in electronics, a field that became both his profession and passion. In 1973, he moved to Ashtabula to begin a lifelong career in broadcast engineering, where his excellence and integrity defined his work. For more than 25 years, he served many different radio stations throughout Northeast Ohio. He also worked nationwide as a Special Services Technician and equipment installer for Alltel and Windstream from 1973–2014, developing expertise in fiber optics, internet aggregation, and transport facilities. Harold’s technical skill even took him overseas to Kuwait in 1985, where he helped establish the country’s first cellular telephone network—an accomplishment he often looked back on with great pride.

Harold was meticulous and forward-thinking—qualities that served him well when he transformed the bookkeeping system for IBEW Local #762/Hometown Credit Union from paper to computer in the early 1990s. But his greatest satisfaction came not simply from his success at work, but from knowing his efforts helped others and honored God.

A man strong in faith and dedicated to service, Harold gave generously of his time and talents within the church. He led a thriving Christian Singles Ministry at First Assembly of God for five years and was active in many aspects of church life—teaching adult Sunday School, assisting with Vacation Bible School and youth clubs, performing in church plays, and serving faithfully in sound ministry, both by maintaining equipment and operating sound for services and special events.

Outside of work and ministry, Harold had a curious mind and a creative spirit. He enjoyed woodworking, clock repair, electronic projects, puzzles, and collecting all kinds of humor and lead crystal bells. He also found joy in quiet evenings with board games and crafting projects.

Above all, Harold was most proud of his sons—Robert C., Martin A. (Jewel Young), and Eric S. Barnard—and the loving family they built together. His guidance, steady faith, and example of hard work continue to inspire them. He is also survived by his sister, Charlene Prochazka; his brother, Richard Barnard; and his grandchildren, Zachary, Matthew, and Caleigh.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his sister Rose, and his former wife and the mother of his three sons, Karen.

Calling hours will be held on Friday, February 20, 2026, from 4:00–7:00 p.m. at Fleming-Billman Funeral Home, 49 W. Jefferson Street, Jefferson, Ohio. The family will also receive guests on Saturday, February 21, from 10:00–11:00 a.m. at Calvary Baptist Church, 114 Hope Court, Elyria, prior to a funeral service beginning at 11:00 a.m., officiated by Pastor Jeff Smith. Burial will follow in Pittsfield East Cemetery.

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