Kenneth Barbe

Kenneth Vaughn Barbe, age 91, of Roswell passed away peacefully at home May 18, 2016. He will lie in state for viewing 9:00 A.M. to 7:00 P.M. Thursday, May 19, 2016. A graveside service will be held 11:00 A.M., Friday, May 20, 2016 at South Park Cemetery. Pastor Aaron Colyer of First Baptist Church will officiate. Graveside honors will be rendered by the Roswell Veterans Honor Guard.

Kenneth was born to Charlie and Artie Barbe February 17, 1925 in Maxwell, New Mexico. He grew up in Lawton, Oklahoma. After graduating from Central High School he married the love of his life Carmen Coulter on June 3, 1943 in Chickasha, Oklahoma. Shortly after he entered the military. Kenneth's military career consisted of the U.S. Army Air Corps from 1943-1946; a World War II Veteran. After his military service was finished he attended the Business College prior to working for the Roswell Linen Service from 1948-1960; then a farmer and a rancher from 1960-till present. He has been a Roswell resident since 1947. During his life here he was a member of the Mason's, Shriner's, Rotary Club, First Baptist Church, Eagles, and Elks Club. Kenneth enjoyed various hobbies and interests which included playing golf, being an avid reader, and flying; he had his private pilot license. He served as the Chaves County Flood Commissioner from 1991-2003.
He is preceded in death by his parents Charlie and Artie Barbe;; brother Robert Barbe; half-brothers Oliver and Kermit Cagle; half-sisters Etha Jemison and Bertha Cody; and daughter Carmen June McDonald.

Kenneth is survived by his wife Carmen Coulter Barbe of the home;; children Janet Gilbert and her husband Robert Terry Gilbert of Fort Collins, CO, Ken Barbe and his wife Teresa of Roswell, NM; Chuck Barbe and his wife Christie of Roswell, NM; sisters Mary Lou Williams of Clovis, NM and Sue Speir of Roswell, NM; grandchildren Scott and Michael Gilbert, Christy McDonald-Bates, Shawn McDonald, Robert McDonald, Melissa Barbe Ryan, and Chad Barbe; as well as 14 great-grandchildren.

The family would like to express their gratitude to the caregivers from Comfort Keepers, Gentiva Hospice, and Advanced Home Healthcare.
Memorial donations may be made to the Roswell Masonic Lodge #18, 2305 W College Blvd, Roswell, NM 88201. Shriners Children's Hospital at www.shrinershospitals.org/Donate. Advanced Home Healthcare 315 W Country Club Rd, Roswell, NM 88201.

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