Alvin E. Barten, 79, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away surrounded by his family on Friday morning, February 28, 2025, at home.

Alvin Elmer Barten was born on May 25, 1945 in Jackson County, Iowa, to Elmer Henry and Minnie Catherine (Clark) Barten. He was a graduate of Andrew High School and served his country in the U.S. Army Reserves.  He married Vera Elaine Bock on July 17, 1966 in Elwood, Iowa. Their loving union was blessed with two children, Lori and Scott, who brought immense joy to his life.

Professionally, Alvin was known for his exceptional skill as a mechanic. His passion for automobiles led him to own and operate Barten Auto Sales in Maquoketa for 45 years. His expertise and honest service earned him the respect and trust of the community. Alvin also shared his talents in the real estate industry, working for several years with area realtors.

Alvin’s life was marked by his dedication to his community. His civic engagement was evident through his ten years of service as a Maquoketa City Councilman, where he made impactful contributions to the betterment of his hometown. Alvin had been a member of the Iowa Independent Auto Dealers Association and the Coronado Car Club, where he connected with fellow car enthusiasts.

His interests were a reflection of his character—generous, and always willing to lend a hand. Alvin loved working on cars, particularly racing cars for family and friends, and his expertise was sought after by many. His hands were rarely still, as he was always tinkering with projects, finding joy in the challenge of repair and restoration. Alvin’s love for treasure hunting was evident in his enjoyment of garage sales, flea markets, and auctions, where he often found hidden gems.

Alvin’s legacy is carried on by his devoted wife, Vera Barten of Maquoketa, IA; his daughter and son-in-law, Lori and Marvin Massey of Maquoketa, IA; his four grandchildren, four step-grandchildren, and eight step-great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his sisters, Ester Weirup, Marcella Heneke, and Violet “Vi” (Ron) Yeager, all of Maquoketa, IA; his sister-in-law, Patricia Weirup of Maquoketa, IA; and numerous nieces and nephews.  He was preceded in death by his parents, son Scott Barten on March 4, 2018, and two brothers-in-law Vernon Weirup and Larry Heneke.

A celebration of his life will be held at 10:30 A.M., Thursday, March 6, 2025, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa. Visitation will be held from 4 to 7 P.M., Wednesday, March 5, 2025, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  Cremation will follow the visitation, and burial will be at Union Cemetery, rural Maquoketa, Iowa.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, memorials may be directed to the family or Hospice of Jackson County.

Online condolences may be left at www.CarsonAndSon.com.