Gaylord Y. Barkman Obituary, Beach City, Ohio — Gaylord Y. Barkman, 61, of Beach City, Ohio, passed away from respiratory failure at the OSU Medical Center in Columbus on Monday, July 13, 2026. He was surrounded by his wife and children as he went to be with the Lord, leaving behind a legacy of faith, compassion, and service that touched many lives.
Born on March 28, 1965, to the late Raymond J. Barkman and Clara (Mullet) Barkman, Gaylord was known as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, minister, and friend. He married Celesta (Kauffman) in 1992, and the couple shared 34 years together. Those who knew him described him as a loving and caring man whose joy, kindness, and passion for people extended far beyond his immediate family.
Gaylord was a longtime member and minister at Christian Life Mennonite Church, where he served faithfully since 2001. His commitment to ministry also took him to Chiang Mai, Thailand, where he served as an IGo pastor for six years. Throughout his life, he carried a deep love for Jesus and His word, inspiring those around him through his example of faith and dedication.
In addition to his ministry work, Gaylord worked in sales with Ferra Manufacturing after his time in Thailand, a role that allowed him to continue doing what he loved most — connecting with and encouraging people. Friends, church members, and colleagues remembered him as someone who invested deeply in others and made a lasting impression through his warmth and genuine care.
Gaylord’s family remembers him as a man who loved his family, the church, and his community wholeheartedly. He is survived by his wife, Celesta; his six children, Cherie (Austin) Miller, Zachary (Rebekah) Barkman, Christina (Randy) Garcete, Trevor (Meagan) Barkman, Michael (Katrina) Barkman, and Chloe (Erwin) Miller; and his 13 grandchildren. He is also survived by his brother-in-law Merle Beachy and brothers Ervin, Martin, James, Joel, Clement, and Lael Barkman.
Following his passing, friends and members of the community shared heartfelt tributes honoring Gaylord’s influence and faith. Many remembered him as a mentor, co-pastor, confidant, and brother in Christ, reflecting on his guidance through weddings, baptisms, funerals, church discussions, and countless personal conversations. Those close to him expressed gratitude for the example he set and the impact he made in the lives of others.
Funeral services will be held on Monday, July 20, at 10:00 AM at Christian Life Mennonite Church, located at 11663 Kaylor Rd NW, Beach City, Ohio 44608, with Joe Heatwole officiating. Burial will follow at the Christian Life Mennonite Church Cemetery. Calling hours will take place at the church on Saturday, July 18, from 5–7 PM and Sunday, July 19, from 1–3 PM and 5–7 PM.
The family expressed their gratitude to friends, relatives, and the Christian Life Mennonite Church community for their continued love, prayers, and support during this difficult time. Gaylord Y. Barkman will be remembered for his unwavering faith, his dedication to serving others, and the lasting legacy of love and encouragement he leaves behind. May his memory continue to bring comfort to all who knew and loved him.
