Obituary of Eva Jean Barnhardt

Eva Jean Barnhardt, age 75, passed away peacefully December 7, 2020. Born on December 6, 1945 three months prematurely to Clonda and John Gurecki, at the time, she was the smallest baby in Rochester, weighing a mere 29 ounces. The nurses nicknamed her "Jeanie", which stuck with her for the rest of her life.

Choosing sports over dresses, Jean was an avid sports fan throughout her life. Partaking in sports throughout high school, and then attending all of her son's sports games, she was the loudest parent cheering in the stands. A faithful member of the "Bills Mafia", she would cheer at the top of her lungs proudly for the Buffalo Bills every Sunday. She also enjoyed watching the Syracuse Orange play basketball and the Alabama Crimson Tide play college football. 

Jean was a dedicated mother and grandmother first and foremost. She treasured her grandchildren, Michael and Lucas, and one of her favorite things to do was to spend time with them. Whether it be making Sunday football picks, making soup, or baking cupcakes, she loved being a grandma and spoiling her grandchildren. She always went above and beyond to put a smile on their faces, often by sneaking them Tootsie Rolls and Hot Wheels.

She had the unique talent of making friends with just about everyone she met. Approachable, unpretentious and good-natured, she simply had a way of charming people. She was a mom to all of her children's friends.

Jean will be deeply missed by and is survived by her loving husband Dennis Barnhardt of 52 years, her daughter Michelle Barnhardt, her son John Barnhardt, her daughter-in-law Meghan Barnhardt, her grandchildren Michael and Lucas Barnhardt, and numerous cousins, nieces and nephews, all of whom she loved profoundly.

She was preceded in death by her parents Clonda and John Gurecki, and her sister Gayle (Bob) Augustine.

A celebration of life to honor Jean and her husband, Dennis, will be held this summer. Details to come.