Leroy Richard Barton, 77, of Fargo, died Wednesday, March 4, 2015 at Sanford Health, Fargo, ND.

Leroy Barton was born in Fargo, ND to Richard and Hertha “Hattie” (Axel) Barton, on May 27, 1937. He grew up and attended school in Fargo, graduating from Fargo Central High School. He served a short stint in the US Navy. Leroy’s proudest memory during his service was the work he did with an orphanage while docked. When he returned home, he worked as a bricktender then began his career in painting, mentored by Leonard Otterson. He later became self employed as a successful professional painting contractor. Later in life, he owned a cleaning business. He never did retire; he was a hard worker, working up until the time of his death. He did volunteer work as well.

Leroy married Della Dodge on July 16, 1960. They later divorced but became good friends. He took guardianship of three boys and loved them as his own.

Leroy is survived by his daughter, Pam Barton-Ottesen, sons, Rick Barton and Brian (Brenda) Barton, all of Fargo; “sons”, Terry, Dennis Jr. and Jason Dodge; eight grandchildren, Jessica Smith, Crystal Barton, Vanessa Barton, Josh Ottesen, Tyler Barton, Alexis Barton, Nick Barton and Austin Barton; six great-grandchildren, Landon Ottesen, Jake Ottesen, Dawson Himmelspach, Damien Himmelspach, Easton Smith and Makenna Smith; and sister, Sharon (James) Lenk, Missouri.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Bruce and sister, Joann.