Obituary of Paul Gary Barton

After a long battle with colon cancer, Paul Gary Barton, age 60, peacefully left here and was welcomed by his Heavenly Father into his eternal home, free from pain and suffering, now enjoying the wonders of Heaven. Gary grew up in Santa Cruz, attending Live Oak and Soquel High School. He was a general contractor and worked here before moving to Palm Springs, where he lived for 20 years, before coming back "home" to Santa Cruz. He loved the ocean and surfing, and was a surfing instructor for the Fellowship of Christian Athletes and Walk On Water Organizations. He enjoyed working with young people and was a highly regarded high school volleyball coach, coaching girls' Junior Varsity and Varsity teams. Gary was the first high school volleyball coach in the Coachella Valley to win the CIF playoffs and take his high school team to the state volleyball playoffs. His musical talents were many, and included piano, baritone and percussion. He excelled playing electric bass. He played regularly at Southwest Church in Palm Desert. He accepted Jesus Christ as his savior when a child and truly lived his faith. He was passionate about helping the poor. He leaves behind his wife, Katherine Barton; two sons, Paul Barton (Sandy) and Caleb Barton (Cris Ann); three daughters, Claire Barton, Rachel Roush (Mike) and Stephanie Barton. He also leaves three grandchildren, Evelyn and Otto Roush, and Spencer Barton; parents, Paul and Nelda Barton; and four siblings, Liz Depaul, Chris Murray (Jody), Shery DeLair (Don) and Greg Barton (Jennifer). In lieu of flowers the family requests donations be made to non-profit www.PostHope.org A memorial service and reception will be held Sunday, March 15 at 3:00pm at Twin Lakes Church, 2701 Cabrillo College Drive, Aptos, CA 95003. All are welcome.