Harold James (Barney) Amstutz

Harold James (Barney) Amstutz, age 93, passed away peacefully, May 31, 2019 at his home surrounded by his children. He was born June 14, 1925 in Detroit, Mich., to Harry J. Amstutz and Leona (Teeke) Amstutz.

Harold was in the 4th Infantry Division, 8th regiment, during WWII. The 4th Infantry was the first wave to land on the beaches in Normandy during D-Day, June 6,1944. After the landing at Utah Beach, it went on to be the first U.S. infantry to enter Paris during the liberation. Then continued through Belgium toward the Siegfried Line and Germany, encountering Battle of Hurtgen Forest and the Battle of Ardennes (the Battle of the Buldge). Harold often referred to June 6, 1944 as his rebirth.

After retuning home Harold returned to his first love and profession, farming. He continued farming with his sons for the rest of his life. He was also a truck driver, owning two trucking companies during his lifetime.

Preceding him in death was the true love of his life, his wife, Marybeth (Molly) Hendershot Amstutz and his sisters, Mary Ellen, Esther, LuAnn and Karen.

Harold is survived by his children and their spouses, Susan (Michael) O’Hara, Robin Amstutz, Mark (Michelle) Amstutz and Eric Amstutz; grandchildren, Trevor (Katherine) Sowers, Mathew (Amy) Sowers, Stephen (Jamie) Sowers, Maijel (Tyler) Chisolm, Alyssa Chisolm, Lindsey (Marc) Saxton, Tyler (Renee) Amstutz; great-grandchildren, William, Dahlia, Jonah, Evie, Raelynn, Connor, Dylan, Kyler, Sloane, Garrett, Wyatt; and his beloved cat, Garfield.

He will be remembered for many reasons including a fearless love of life and generosity. He will be dearly missed by his family and friends.

Funeral services were held on Tuesday, June 4, 2019 at J. Gilbert Purse Funeral Home, Tecumseh with Rev. Richard Mortimer officiating. Burial was in Macon Cemetery, Macon.  Visitation preceded the service at the funeral home.

In lieu of  flowers, the family is asking that people consider donations for Parkinson’s research at apdaparkinson.org/research.

Condolences to the family may be made at pursefuneralhome.com.