Elton W. Barnes

Elton W. Barnes passed away peacefully at home on April 27, 2026 at the age of 97. Born on June 23, 1928, in Meriden, he was the son of Erwin and Mathilda (Nagel) Barnes.

Elton shared a devoted marriage with his beloved wife, Nancy, who predeceased him. The two were married on May 17, 1958, in a memorable double ceremony alongside Nancy’s sister, Myra, and her husband, David Houston, at First Congregational Church.

A graduate of Wilcox Technical School, Elton trained as an electrician and served his country in the United States Army during the Korean War. He built a long and respected career wiring rolling mills for the steel industry, eventually retiring from Integrated Industrial Systems.

Elton was a lifelong outdoorsman whose happiest moments were often spent in nature. He enjoyed spending time with his cousin Bill Nagel and friend Bob Crovo; the three of them shared many years of ice fishing in winter, trout fishing in the spring, and horseshoes on Monday nights. He also enjoyed camping with his family on Cape Cod and in Maine.

Elton also built a cottage with his father on Lake Hayward in Colchester. He spent many summers there with his daughters and, later, his grandchildren, creating lasting family memories. He enjoyed fishing, playing cards, and gardening - especially making horseradish.

A lifelong parishioner of St. John Lutheran Church, Elton’s faith was an important part of his life.

He is survived by his daughters, Diane and Suzanne; his grandchildren, Chelsea and Evan; and his great-granddaughters, Maggie and Allie, along with many nieces and nephews. In addition to his wife, he was predeceased by his brother, Erwin.

A funeral service celebrating Elton’s life will be held on Thursday, May 7, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at St. John Lutheran Church, 520 Paddock Ave., Meriden. Friends may visit with his family from 10:30-11:00 a.m. prior to the service. Interment with Military Honors will be held in Gethsemane Cemetery, Meriden. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. John Lutheran Church or to a charity of one’s choice.

To send condolences, please see Elton’s obituary at www.beecherandbennett.com.