Mr. Barkman retired in 2005 after many years teaching at the high school level. His final and longest teaching position was with Bunker Hill High School in Bunker Hill, IL. After retirement, he worked for the Lewis & Clark Library System, which later became Illinois Heartland Library. Charlie enjoyed nature and the outdoors and especially loved hunting morels in the springtime. He was an animal lover and had several dear friends with whom he enjoyed frequently playing golf – sometimes he was even good at it, but he always enjoyed it.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert Edward and Agnes Alvina, nee Yoch, Barkman; his stepfather, Jerome Reinhart; a brother, Robert Bernard Barkman; and a step-sister, Sharon (Steven) Coil.
Surviving are a brother, Martin Ross (Carol) Barkman of Lakewood, CO;
two sisters, Mary A. “Mickey” (Dean) Weilbacher of Millstadt, IL,
and Kathleen Marie Bujnak (William “Buck” Hamilton) of Belleville, IL;
a step-brother Dale Reinhart of Independence, MO;
six nieces and nephews, Robert Barkman of California,
Meghan (Phil) Law of Denver, CO,
Dawn (Scott) Sheldon of Millstadt, IL,
Deanna Weilbacher of Lighthouse Point, FL,
Amanda Bujnak of St. Louis, MO,
Michelle (Jeremy) DeJournett of Belleville, IL;
two step-nieces, Shannon (Barbee) Rungi,
and Connie (David) Schreiber;
two great-nieces, Alexis and Allison Sheldon;
a great-nephew, Lachlen Law;
two step-great-nieces, Macy and Taylor Schreiber;
a step-great-nephew, Levi Rungi;
three canine companions, Luke, Roy, and Reese;
and aunts, uncles, and cousins.
Memorials may be made to the humane society of your choice. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.rennerfh.com.
Per Charlie’s request, no formal services will be held. Instead, enjoy one another’s company and have a drink to toast Charlie.