James Frederick Barfknecht, 95, of Helena, MT, retired Army Colonel and decorated WWII Veteran, passed away peacefully at St. Peter’s Hospital, March 24, 2016 surrounded by his family. Jim was born in Melstone, MT on August 21, 1920 to Otto F. Barfknecht and Millie (Hinds) Barfknecht. The family moved to Bozeman in 1928 where his father worked for the railroad. After graduation from Gallatin County High School in 1938, he worked for two years to afford college during the Great Depression. He attended Montana State College, Bozeman (MSC/MSU), for two years when he was selected to enter the Navy’s V-5 program.
Barfknecht entered the U.S. Navy as an Aviation Cadet June 4, 1942. He qualified as a Naval Aviator June 30, 1943, Naval Air Station Corpus Christi, TX, where he was awarded his Gold Wings and commissioned an Ensign in the U.S. Navy. After advanced pilot training in Jacksonville, FL, he completed Aircraft Carrier Qualifications on the USS Wolverine, Lake Michigan. He was then assigned to fleet duty aboard the USS Yorktown Aircraft Carrier, (CV10), also known as the “Fighting Lady” in the Pacific Theater. As a World War II Naval Aviator, Ensign Barfknecht flew the Naval Torpedo Bomber TBF-1 Avenger, with 70 successful sorties, launching/landing off the USS Yorktown. He was involved in intense combat of launched air strikes and raids and participated in several naval battles including the Battle of Leyete Gulf, the landing on Iwo Jima and the first aerial flight of carrier based torpedo bombers over the Tokyo area in early 1945. Jim served with distinction and became a decorated Aviator, receiving the Air Medal with Gold Star Asiatic for an attack on a Japanese freighter in the Philippines. He also received the Distinguished Flying Cross with Gold Star, Pacific and Philippine Liberation Ribbons and a Presidential Unit Citation.
Jim returned to Bozeman on leave from the Pacific Theater on April 1, 1945 and married his high school sweetheart Virginia Howell on April 4, 1945 in Bozeman. After a month of leave, he returned to the Navy while Virginia stayed in Bozeman to graduate from MSC. Once released from Naval Active Duty, Jim returned to MSC to complete his Mechanical Engineering degree in 1949, while remaining in the Naval Reserves. Jim and Virginia started their family, which includes two daughters, Kay and Dee and son Jim. In April, 1947, Jim “traded services”, resigning from the Naval Reserves and joining the Montana Army National Guard. He and Virginia were also part owners of the Howell family “College Hill Grocery Store” in Bozeman.
In July 1953, they moved to Helena where he was appointed Army Aviation Operations & Maintenance Officer for observation aircraft and helicopters of the Montana Army National Guard. He was the first aviator in the Montana Army National Guard and had the honor of flying the first helicopter in the state. In 1965 he became the first Montana Guardsman to receive the Master Army Aviator Award. Barfknecht organized the Montana Army National Guard Aviation Program known today as the 189th Aviation Battalion. He also commanded both Headquarters Company 163rd INF Regiment and the Aviation Company of the 163rd Armored Calvary. Col. Barfknecht, nicknamed by colleagues – “The Father of the Montana Army National Guard Aviation” served his “last drill” and retired in 1977 after 35 years of combined military service.
Jim’s interest and devotion to aviation extended beyond the boundaries of Montana to Washington D.C. where he spent Active Duty time assisting other states in the organization and operation of their aviation programs.
After his retirement, Jim was an active volunteer in the community and a member of several service organizations; American legion, ELKS, American Red Cross, Morning Star Lodge #5 Scottish Rite, Daedalians (retired military pilots), Montana Military Museum, Friendship Force, a fiercely loyal die-hard MSU Bobcat, life-time MSU Alumni member and Sigma Chi Fraternity, as well as a member of the First Baptist Church of Montana where he served on various committees. He was a member of the State Seniors Golf Association, loved to fish and could figure out any given puzzle. He and Virginia traveled extensively in their retirement, including attending his Yorktown VT-3 Torpedo Bomber Squadron reunions annually for 25 years. Dad was a man of integrity, honor and dedication. He loved his country, his family and he taught us many valuable life lessons with discipline, love and generosity. We will miss him tremendously.
Jim is preceded in death by his loving wife, Virginia, (married almost 67 years when Virginia passed in 2013), parents Otto and Millie and brother Edward. He is survived by his daughter Kay (Joe) Robertson, son Jim (Marcia) Barfknecht and daughter Dee (Dennis Himmelberger), all of Helena, as well as grandson Brad (Trecia) and 3-month old great grandson Barrett James all of Great Falls and grandson John (Bryna) of Bozeman, nephews Beau and family of Port Elizabeth, South Africa, Rick Brumfield of Sedro Wooley, WA and nieces Virginia Rodriguez and Barb Zeigler Seibert of Portland and their families.
Funeral services will be held in Helena at Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home, 3750 N. Montana Ave., on Tuesday, April 5th, 2016 at 11:00 a.m. with a reception to follow immediately in the social hall of the funeral home. Interment with military honors provided by the Montana Army National Guard Honor Guard will take place at 1:30 p.m. at the Montana State Veterans Cemetery at Fort Harrison.
The family would like to thank Dr. Sarah O’Connell, Dr. Lee Harrison, Dr. Jay Larson and all of the incredible nursing staff for their outstanding medical care. We would also like to thank the many friends and loved ones who visited and offered their kind support, prayers and friendship.
Memorials in Jim’s name are suggested to include the Montana Military Museum (P.O. Box 125, Fort Harrison, MT 59636), the American Red Cross (1300 28th St. So., Great Falls, MT 59405) and the First Baptist Church of Montana (201 8th Ave., Helena, MT 59601). Please visit below to offer a condolence to the family or to share a memory of Jim.
Service Schedule
Memorial Service
11:00 a.m.
Tuesday April 5, 2016
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N. Montana Ave.
Helena, Montana 59602
Reception
After the service
Tuesday April 5, 2016
Banquet Hall of Anderson Stevenson Wilke
3750 N. Montana Ave.
Helena, Montana 59602
Burial with Military Honors
After the reception
Tuesday April 5, 2016
Montana State Veterans Cemetery
Hero's Rd.
Fort Harrison, Montana 59636
Service Schedule
Memorial Service
11:00 a.m.
Tuesday April 5, 2016
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N. Montana Ave.
Helena, Montana 59602
Reception
After the service
Tuesday April 5, 2016
Banquet Hall of Anderson Stevenson Wilke
3750 N. Montana Ave.
Helena, Montana 59602
Burial with Military Honors
After the reception
Tuesday April 5, 2016
Montana State Veterans Cemetery
Hero's Rd.
Fort Harrison, Montana 59636
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Allen Stenhjem Family says
What a Gentlemen , God Bless……………………..
Doris Romanisko says
If you looked up the meaning of “gentleman” in a dictionary, you would find a photo of Jim Barfknecht. He was dedicated to his family, and to his favorite causes. I met him through the Red Cross and remember his efforts (no matter the time of day) to finding and notifying servicemen and women of good news (the birth of a child) to not so good news (the passing of a loved one). Many in our community benefited from Jim’s desire to help others. He will be truly missed. But we know that he and Ginny are doing a special waltz. My saddened heart is shared with Barfknecht family.
Jan Ryckman says
I am so sad to learn about Jim’s passing. He was such a special man who headed up a special family. Mom always thought the sun rose and set with Jim and Virginia. She treasured her friendship with them and I too am so grateful for the kindness shown to our family especially this past year. My thoughts and prayers are with all the family now and in the coming weeks and months when the loss is felt so profound. We were all blessed with such a great man as our friend.
Kaysee Williams says
Barf, Marsha, & Family. Im so sorry to hear of the loss of your dad. You all are in my thoughts. Love and prayers your way. Big hugs ❤
Karen Bryson says
Dear Barfknecht family,
My thoughts and prayers are with you as you say goodbye to your sweet dad. What a life! He always had a smile to greet you with. Both your parents were adored by many, many people in this community. May precious memories help you through the days ahead!
Glen J Cuchine says
Barfknect families,
Thoughts and prayers go out to you as you celebrate the wonderful life of your father, grandfather, great grandfather, uncle and American hero. May the wonderful memories you have bring many pleasant moments for each of you.
Rob and Kathy Bean says
Jim, Marcia and family, your dad was cut of an original mold that we do not see anymore. He had my respect and you have our sympathy and best wishes. Bless you both and your family.
Londa Routzahn Burns says
Backbench Family,
Your dad was a wonderful man. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Jo and Paul Bryson says
We are so very sorry for your loss ? We remember visiting with him over bbq’d pork just last July at the pig roast.? What a wonderful life he lived. May his love of life carry on and may his memories fill your hearts. ?
Love and blessings,
Jo and Paul Bryson
Julie & Jim DeMars says
Thinking of you all during this difficult time.
May he rest in peace.
Richard Kauffman says
During an annual two weeks guard camp in 1963, I received word from my family that my wife had given birth to my son, Mark. To this day, I can’t recall who made the arrangements , but I had the privilege to be flown back to Helena by Jim. I was so excited to get home that when I arrived at the hospital, my mother-in-law laughed when she met me in the hall as I had only shaved one side of my face..the wife and I think about that often on the son’s birthday and to this day I am eternally grateful for that special flight with Jim. Thanks again Jim & may you rest in peace.
Susan Smart (Michael & Sherryl) says
Kay, Jim, Dee & families-
Who could forget your Dads smile?! And the twinkle in his eyes! I’m pretty sure it’s being passed along through the generations. One of our greatest pleasures, when returning to Helena on vacations, was stopping in to visit Jim and Ginny. They always made us feel special and welcome. They surely earned their “wings” by the innumerable acts of kindness they did for others. Take delight in all the good memories.
Lue Balkema says
Kay, Jim & Dee
My thoughts and prayers are with you. Your dad was a large influence on John’s
military career. Hiring John to fill one of the first supply positions in the Aviation Company.
We moved from Bozeman to Helena and your folks welcomed us with open arms.
They were both very special people and will be missed by all. I saw your dad last
summer at the retirees day. He always had a smile and a good word. He lived a full
and rewarding life. God bless.
Patti Marshall says
Dee, Jim and Family, I am so sorry for your loss, but what an absolutely wonderful adventure of a life your Dad enjoyed!! You are all in my thoughts and prayers.
Patti Marshall
Randy Routzahn says
Dee and Family, I am sorry for your loss and I respected your father. I enjoyed seeing him and your mother at the Red Cross drawings, watching him interact with all of us. he was a very nice man. You and your family are in my prayers. Randy
Alysa Semans says
Dee and Family, We are very sorry for your loss. Your father was a wonderful man, he will be truly missed. Our thoughts and prayer are with you during this time. God bless and Love, The Semans (Alysa, Dustin, Nate, Patrick, and Aurora)
Richard Semans says
The world has lost a wonderful human being. Jim was a person to be looked up to and respected. My thoughts and prayers are with his family. May God bless you and keep you during this time of grief. Rich Semans
Dave Van Nice says
Barfknecht family: Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Here’s a final salute to the Colonel!
Elaine Cooper Power says
Barfknecht Families: Please know of my sincere sympathy in your loss of your Dad. I have known your parents for many years, always friendly with happy smiles. Morley (Coop) and Jim both flew torpedo planes in the Navy during WW 2. May God bless you, give you comfort and peace, knowing your parents are together again.
Rich Fox says
I am better having known this great, great man. One day I will take my last flight. When I do, I hope to join Jim as his wing man.
Don Pratt says
So sorry to hear of the passing of your father. He was a great guy. I will be traveling back from TX so may not be able to attend the services but my thoughts and prayers will be with you.
Jim & Bettie Greytak says
He was an officer and a gentleman I will long remember. Our deepest sympathy goes out to his family.
Linda Hall Jacquez says
Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time. It’s so hard to loose our greater generation!
Joe Macklin says
Please accept my condolences and best wishes to the family and friends of Jim Barfknecht. I met Jim 11 years ago when I moved to Great Falls after retiring from the Air Force. I liked to sit at his table during the monthly Daedalian meetings at Malmstrom Air Force Base, because I loved to get Jim to talk, and I really enjoyed listening to his stories. He was such a humble, and quiet guy.
I remember so very well the night we took Jim to Benefis ER after he had swallowed some shrimp the wrong way and it got stuck in his throat during a Daedalian function at the base, I think it was last August. I drove Jim along with our guest, nurse Christi Madson, to the ER clinic in Great Falls and spent most of the time keeping Jim company along with several other friends that evening… He kept making light of his situation, and pretty much kept us all in stitches.
I just want you to know that I really thought the world of your father. He was such a great guy!!! He’s exactly the kind of veteran I strive to be. What a great role model for us all!!!
I lead a small Men’s Group Bible study every Wednesday. On April 6th, I will be talking about Colonel Barfknecht and sharing my memories of him with my Men’s Group.
I thought you might enjoy seeing this short video “Just a Common Soldier”, It reminds me of Jim…
https://www.youtube.com/embed/eEs4ke7cdNQ?feature=player_detailpage%22
God Bless you and your lovely families!
CAROL KING BARFKNECHT says
As Jim’s Sister-in Law in New Zealand, I am saddened that I am unable to attend his service. Kay, Dee, & Jim , your Dad, like his brother Edward, was a gentleman of the old school. Always ready to help out at church and anyone in need, these brothers, although living far apart, showed the same qualities throughout life, of service, not only to their country, but to their fellow man.
Jim lived a fullfilling, noble life and now at last he is with Virginia & my Eddie at peace.
My love to you all and all the extended family members of the Barfknecht clan.
Larry Steck says
A final salute to a member of the Greatest Generation. Thank you for your life time of service. A life well lived! Rest in Peace. Mission complete.
Rick and Jan O'Connell says
Barf, Dee and Kay. The world is a sadder place with the passing of your Dad but Heaven is a little brighter.
Gary Temple says
Many, many fond memories of not only this man but his warm and welcoming smile. As well my condolences to my school mates, Jim and Marcia.
Marcia Fairhurst says
Bill admired the Colonel so much and valued the years they spent together in the Guard.
Kryss Kuntz says
Dear Barfnecht family,
I am sorry to hear of the passing of your father, mentor, friend and I am sure so much more. It is sad to see the passing of a great generation of people. I am sure that Kelly will be there to greet the ol’ boy. Sending you all much love and prayers.
Marilyn Emmons says
Dee, Jim & Kay, I am sorry for your loss. I have fond memories of your Dad & Mom and the fun times our families had together. I loved our ski trips and the evenings I spent at your house when my parents went dancing. Your parents always made me feel welcome and valued in their home. I wish you all peace and the Lord’s comfort.
Sincerely, Marilyn Smart Emmons
Christina Dube says
Dear Barfknecht family,
I will always remember growing up next door to Mr and Mrs Barfknecht. Even though I’m grown up and moved away, I can remember him in his yard working on the lawn or the bushes. He never minded us kids running around in our yard making noise and having fun and he always had a cheerful “hello” for my brother and I whenever we saw him. (He was always really nice about us jumping into his yard whenever one of our toys would take a wild leap over the fence!) He will be lovingly remembered and missed.
Christina Dube
Adele W Seitz says
Dear Virginia and family,
My sympathy goes out to you all. My thoughts and prayers are with you. Memories of church and the many Sunday’s we shared will always be with me.
Adele Wilkinson Seitz
Kasey Kuntz says
Our thoughts and prayers are with you in this time of loss. The “Father of the Montana National Guard Aviation” paved the way for many generations of aviators to soar high above! What a true American hero, patriot and legend! His legacy will forever roam the halls of the AASF.
Sue Dostall says
Dee, I knew your dad only through the stories you told, what a lovely man! Blessings to your family.
Tom Naegele says
Dear Barfknecht Clan,
What a wonderful life Jim lived and he helped create many legacies that will live on…especially his awesome children. I was blessed to know Jim as a mentor, friend and Sigma Chi Brother. He is truly a Gentleman and part of America’s Greatest Generation.
Know that my prayers of loving support are with you all during this time of Life Celebration for your Dad. Peace & Tranquility, Tom
Art and Clara Gilreath says
Our most sincere condolences and prayers go out to Jim’s family during this time of grief
God Bless
Mike & Mary Ellen Morrison says
Dee, Jim and Kay,
Sorry we can’t be there for your Dad’s funeral. We are still in AZ. He was a great one.
Myrna Omholt-Mason says
Your family was blessed to have him for such a long time-not many can be that fortunate. I always enjoyed talking with him at the Red Cross blood draws. What a neat man and my heartfelt sympathy to your family.
Karen Semple says
I first met Jim in 2000 while taking disaster relief classes at The American Red Cross office. He was in charge of emergency messages to service members. Since then, our paths crossed at ARC many times and he had an air of cordiality and courtesy that was striking. May his memory be a blessing forever.
Allan and Judy Davies says
Jim, Marcia and family,
Sorry to hear of the passing of your father. Your dad and mom were both special people.
Thinking of you with special thoughts these days.
Our deepest sympathy to all the family.
Allan and Judy Davies
Dave Cole says
I met Jim while I was a volunteer at the Montana Military Museum where he was a longtime and active member of the Board of Directors. He was a kind and gracious man and, obviously, from the descriptions of his military record and exploits, quite a warrior as a younger man. The naval aviation display at the Museum highlights his career as a naval aviator when he flew off the USS Yorktown in several of the critical battles of the WW II Pacific Theater. His photograph in the display and description of his record are a fitting way to remember this very special man.
Don Sneck says
I never knew the extent of your father’s military experience, Jim. I just knew of him from one conversation in which I realized that I was privileged to be speaking with a true gentleman. My prayers are with you and your family.
Hal Roys says
Your father was just a marvelous man. I know that our families roots run deep together. My parents honored and adored your folks from college days . As veterans, our Dads had a deep appreciation of each other. I think of your parents often. I was privileged to spend about an hour on the phone with your Dad , not long after your Mom had passed. God bless their memories and your hearts. Jim was one of the rarest of heroes , to me.
Lynn Scott Thomas says
Dear Kay, Jim and Dee….another treasure has gone to loftier heights. He lived a long and meaningful life. I will always remember your mom and dad…and you three…at the First Baptist Church. Even as you all grew older, your parents were always there….greeting everyone, always upbeat and so, so kind. He will forever be part of you. The love will never die. Keep your memories close to your hearts. Sending healing love. Lynn Scott Thomas
Bill & Sue Thode says
Kay, Jim, and Dee – your Mom and Dad’s true friendship to our family will never be forgotten. Even after Eleanor and Harry passed away, Sue and I always felt a warm welcome when we dropped by the house on Breckenridge. They were a true blessing to both of us and continue to be a shining example of what all of us should be in this world. We will miss them deeply.
Chuck & Catherine Thode says
Kay, Jim and Dee – I echo my brother’s thoughts. A trip to Helena will no longer be the same as our family always enjoyed a visit with your Mom and Dad (sometimes unannounced!). Thank you for sharing them with us and blessing to you all.