Lawrence J. "Shorty" Barton, 86, 109 S. Washington St., New Bremen, died at 8:40 p.m. Nov. 17, 2007, at Heritage Manor Nursing Center, Minster.

He was born Aug. 10, 1921, near Frenchtown, to Frank D. and Laura A. Bey Barton.

Surviving are several nieces and nephews.

Deceased are two brother, John and Francis; and three sisters, Marie Thiebeau, Viola Barga and Genevie Smith.

He was a truck driver at the former Beatrice Foods plant and then a diesel mechanic at the former Tranco, both in New Bremen. He was a U.S. Navy veteran of World War II.

Services will be at a later date at the convenience of the family.

Arrangements are being handled by Gilberg-Hartwig Funeral Home, New Bremen.