Manley V. Barr

WELLSBURG, NY - Manley V. Barr, Age 89, of Hoffman Hollow Road, Lowman, New York passed away Monday, February 13, 2012 with his loving family at his side. Manley was born February 10, 1923 in Chemung, NY son of the late Harvey and Clara (Groves) Barr. He grew up on a farm as an active 4-H member. Following graduation from High School in Waverly New York, he entered the United States Army Air Corps where he served during WW II from 1942 to 1945. He was a B-29 engine mechanic and crew chief, rising to the rank of Sergeant. During that time he married the former Helena L. Bowers on July 1, 1943 in Amarillo, Texas. After returning from the war effort, at the age of 24 he built his current home. He developed a large poultry and egg business and continued with farming activities for many more years, to include milk testing with DHI. He worked at Bendix in Elmira Heights for 31 years as a machinist. He built and remodeled several homes and apartments and developed the Birchland Mobile Housing Park in Lowman. Manley was a member, trustee and Sunday School Teacher at the Lowman United Methodist Church. He and Helena were active members of several local Square Dancing Clubs. He also enjoyed camping, where he was a noted story teller and respected source of political information. He and Helena wintered in Florida prior to him becoming ill and he enjoyed playing tennis. Other interest included gardening, raising flowers and researching his family genealogy. He found great joy in spending time with his family who will miss him deeply. He generously supported several charities, including veteran’s groups, American Indian education funds, the Smile Train and others. Survivors include his wife Helena of Lowman, NY, three sons and daughters-in-law, Wayne & Barbara Barr of Cayuta, NY, Ronald & Kathleen Barr of San Antonio, TX, Jeffery & Cynthia Barr of Elmira, NY, a daughter and son-in-law, Janeen & David Warrick of Horseheads, NY, seven grandchildren, Thomas Barr, Christopher Barr, Rebecca Collier, Katherine Pavlina, Jeremy Warrick, Justin Warrick and Amanda Warrick, seven great-grandchildren, two sisters, Norma Doane of Elmira, NY, Joyce Beach of Erin, NY, several nieces and nephews and friends. He was married to Helena for 68 ½ years. He was predeceased by his parents and his brother Grover Barr. Family and friends are invited to call from 6 to 8 PM Friday, February 17, 2012 at the Roberts Funeral Home, Inc. 279 Main Street, Wellsburg, NY 14894. Funeral services will be held 1:00 PM Saturday, February 18, 2012 at the funeral home with Reverend Michael Spencer officiating. Interment with full military honors will follow in Chemung Cemetery.