Michael Arthur Barden
May 30, 1950 - May 10, 2026May 30, 1950 - May 10, 2026
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Michael Arthur Barden
May 30, 1950 - May 10, 2026May 30, 1950 - May 10, 2026
Upcoming ceremonies
Memorial Service
We will be gathering to share stories, memories, and music. We will be across from the splash pad parking lot. There will be a farewell cookout "dad style" at 1 pm at the Hamilton Terrace Apartment grounds. 1326 Hamilton ave Janesville wi 53548
Saturday, May 23, 2026 at 10:30 AM
Place of birth
Beloit, WI
Most recently lived in
Janesville, WI
Michael's favorite hobbies
Michael has always loved fishing, being out in nature, playing cards, and spoiling his grandbabies.
Michael's favorite foods
Michael never turned down a fresh off the cow t-bone, Ma's (Marlene) potato salad, and homemade bread. In fact, during his last days he asked Ma if she could make him that meal exactly.
Favorite bands and musical artists
Michael absolutely loved going to see "The Jimmy's" with his beloved wife Marlene, Tammy, and Frenchy. He also enjoyed a whole variety of music; classic rock, country, classic r&b, ect
Interesting facts about Michael
Michael lived many lives in his 75 years on this earth. Including but not limited to: The baby The farm boy The lumber jack The soldier The rebel The biker The drummer The farmer The friend But most importantly, a husband, father, brother, uncle, grandpa, and neighborhood social butterfly. For some great stories you can contact his family and friends.
Michael loved nothing more than
His family. He absolutely adored all of his grandchildren and took pride in them all. His children were his life. And he loved his wife Marlene endlessly and compassionatly.
Favorite place in the world
Surrounded by his family and friends.
Favorite TV shows
CSI Miami, Law and order SVU,and any classic western.
Favorite sports
FOOTBALL! He has always been a diehard Green Bay Packers fan.
Favorite movies
John Wayne Westerns
Places Michael traveled to
Michael has been all across the United States and had stories about every place he had been.
Obituary
Michael Arthur Barden, born Francis Arthur Hefti, 75, passed away peacefully on May 10th 2026. Born on May 30th 1950 to Leatha and Elmer Hefti. Adopted by Dorothy and Myron Barden in 1955. Michael had many careers throughout the years including Farming, driver for Evansville auto auction, and co-owner of a taxi company in the late 80's.
He married his beloved wife Marlene on June 4th, 1988 and together they built a life full of adventure, hard work, memories, and love. Michael was known for for his love of fishing, socializing, the Green Bay Packers, and his devotion to his family. He was known for his quick wit, conversation skills, and his compassion for all living creatures.
He is survived by his wife, Marlene Barden, his children Nicholas (Tina), Renee (James), Jessica, Heather, and Becca and numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren. His brother Emil and sisters Donna and Barbara.
He was proceeded in death by his parents Dorothy and Myron Barden, his birth parents Leatha and Elmer Hefti, his brothers David Hefti, Ronald, and Jacob. His sisters Helen Almond, Patricia Kiss, and Myra.
A memorial will be held on May 23rd 2026 at 10:30am at Riverside Park in Janesville Wi. Across from the splash pad, under "Michael and Marlene's tree"
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Michael's Guestbook
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Michael's Photos
Michael timeline of pictures, videos, audio and stories.
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Born on May 30, 1950
Beloit, WI
Passed away on May 10, 2026
Janesville, WI