Michael William Barnard, 70, of Springfield, IL passed away on Friday November 24, 2023, in the comfort of his home.

Michael was born in Springfield on June 13, 1953.  His father, James Barnard, passed shortly after Michael's birth.  His mother, Barbara Boehner (Anders) married Harvey Anders, who Michael considered to be his father.

He graduated from Lanphier High School in 1971.  He served in the United States Navy during the Vietnam War. After his service, Michael married the love of his life, Marcia Kuizin at St. Aloysius Catholic Church in Springfield on May 3, 1975.  They had two children, Nicholas and Matthew. He also had many animals, but his best friend, Hercules, was always by his side. Michael worked for Fiat Allis for many years. When they closed, he worked for Prairie International for more than 23 years before he retired.

Michael was an avid Cardinal fan and loved the Illini.  He really enjoyed going on roadtrips and vacationing.  He also enjoyed fishing, hunting, and spending time with the grandkids and other family.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, James Barnard.

Michael is survived by his wife, Marcia of Springfield; sons, Nicholas (Rachel) Barnard of Springfield, and Matthew (Jo) Barnard of Chatham; grandchildren, Brynn, Landon, Emily and Lucas Barnard, mother in law, Judith Guinn of Springfield; siblings, John (Vickie) Barnard of St. Charles, MO, Steve (Mary Chapman) Anders of Springfield, Gerry (Nancy) Barnard of Chesapeake, VA, Jody Martinie of Springfield, Jay (Janice) Barnard of Springfield, Dawn (Gary) Dodd of Petersburg; sister in law, Joyce Barnard of Springfield; brothers in law, Thomas (Susan) Kuizin of Springfield, James (John Foreman) Kuizin of Springfield, many nieces, nephews, cousins and close friends.

Visitation will be held on Thursday November 30, 2023, at St Aloysius Catholic Church, 2000 E Sangamon Ave, Springfield, IL 62702 at 9:30 a.m. Funeral Mass will begin at 10:30 a.m. Burial will follow at Camp Butler National Cemetery where military honors will be held. A Celebration of Life will take place afterwards at the Knights of Columbus, 2801 West St, Springfield, IL at 1:00 PM.

Memorial Donations may be made to the American Cancer Society.