Fred J. Barden, 85, Emporia, a native of Beagle and longtime Osawatomie resident, died Wednesday, May 10, 2006, in his home.

He was born April 7, 1921, in Beagle, the son of James Fred and Eva Mae Surber Barden. He graduated in 1939 from Osawatomie High School.

Mr. Barden served his country during World War II, entering the U.S. Army on July 20, 1942, and serving until Sept. 30, 1945, when he was honorably discharged.

He and Rose Marie Simeon were married June 1, 1948, in Osawatomie where they made their home. They became the parents of four children.

He was an engineer with the Missouri Pacific Railroad from 1941 until retiring in 1985.

His memberships included the First Baptist Church, Hanlin-Kelly Post No. 2258 of the Veterans of Foreign Wars and Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks Lodge No. 921, all of Osawatomie.

Mr. Barden enjoyed the challenge of working crossword puzzles and liked watching sports.

Those preceding him in death included four sisters, Winifred Osman, Donna Davis, Velma Betcher and Mildred Marvin.

Survivors include his wife, Rose Marie Barden of the home; three sons, Ron Barden of Emporia, Fred Barden of Independence, Mo., and Dennis Barden of Osawatomie; a daughter, Dana Buchanan of Lenexa; a brother, Marvin Barden of Paola; a sister, Helen Rhodes of Osawatomie; nine grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.

Memorial services and visitation were Saturday in the church. Inurnment was in Beagle Cemetery with full military honors.

Memorials may be made to the church in care of Eddy-Birchard Funeral Home, P.O. Box 430, Osawatomie, KS 66064.