Robert G. Barton, born September 18, 1928 in Manti, Utah to Clinton W. Barton and Geneva Michaelsen Barton. He was educated in Midvale and Duchesne schools. His family moved to the Avenues in Salt Lake City and he graduated from East High School. Having been raised in the patriotic era of World War II, he could hardly wait to join the Navy, which he did, early, at age 17. He served two years and was honorably discharged as a veteran at age 19. Bob entered the University of Utah on his return and earned BS and MS degrees. While at the U, he was on the wrestling team and received the Scholarship Award and at 155 lb, he could beat any wrestler on the team due as much to his tenacity as his skill. Bob always credited his success to the GI Bill and the University of Utah. He was employed by the LDS hospital system, which later became Intermountain Health Care. After his retirement, he returned to the U of U and learned to speak Russian and Spanish. He married Bette Jean Frahm June 5, 1950; a happy marriage of 65 years. Bob and Bette are the parents of four amazing children, grandparents of seven boys and two girls, and great grandparents to two girls and one boy. Always loyal to U of U athletics, they have had season tickets for football and basketball games for 40 years. Bob was committed to community and service and belonged to Kiwanis Club for most of his working and retirement years. He also volunteered as a coach for several basketball teams and as an English as a Second Language tutor.
Robert G. Barton is survived by his wife Bette, children Richard G. Barton, (Marie), Julie Rasmussen (Arthur, deceased), Tina Aramaki (Craig), Robert Michael Barton (Holly), Janet Douglas Barton (daughter in-law), nine grandchildren, and three great grandchildren. He is also survived by his brothers John Lynn and Douglas; and preceded in death by his beloved sister Vivian and brothers Hal and Kay Stephen. Bob's loyal companion Pete, a Goldendoodle, looks for his master everyday and sleeps at the foot of his bed, waiting for Bob's return. Special thanks to CNS hospice staff (Cindy, Mindy, Jennifer, and Dave) and his daughter Julie, for their compassionate care in making Bob's final months as comfortable and peaceful as possible.
Memorial services will be held honoring Bob's life Friday, September 4th, 12:00 pm at Edgehill Ward, 1750 South 1500 East, Salt Lake City. Prior to the service, visitation time with friends and family will begin at 10:00 am. In lieu of flowers, please consider a scholarship donation to the Crimson Club Athletic Fund in remembrance of Robert G. Barton. See http://www.crimsonclub.utah.edu or mail to 1825 East South Campus Drive SLC, UT 84112.
