Remembering Barry Wayne Peel: A Life Etched in Love, Laughter, and the Fairways

It is with a heavy heart, indeed, that we share the news of Barry Wayne Peel’s passing. He departed this world on November 2, 2024, at the venerable age of 80, leaving behind a profound legacy of family, laughter, and, yes, a genuine love for the golf course. Barry, a true Columbus native, passed peacefully at Schneck Medical Center, surely with many fond memories of his eight decades of life.

Born on January 17, 1944, right there in Columbus, Indiana, Barry was the son of Ernest E. and Juanita J. Luster Peel. They, sadly, preceded him in death, but their spirit, you could say, undoubtedly shaped the man he became. He grew up in these parts, attending Columbus High School, and proudly walked across that stage with the Class of 1962. It was a time, perhaps, that forged many of the lifelong connections he held dear.

Life, as it often does, brought him to his soulmate. On a beautiful spring day, April 17, 1965, Barry exchanged vows with Vicki S. Mings, right here in Columbus. Their marriage, a testament to enduring love and partnership, spanned nearly six decades. Together, they built a beautiful family, raising two sons: Brad, who married Melissa, and Brian, whose wife is Lisa. And what a family it grew into!

Barry truly reveled in his role as a patriarch. He was the proud grandfather to Ashley, Kyle, Katie, and Abby. But then, as generations do, it expanded even further, bringing him the pure delight of great-grandchildren: Stella, Charlotte, Caroline, Emma, and Cooper. You see, family wasn't just important to Barry; it was, in truth, the very heartbeat of his existence. He loved nothing more than spending time with them, watching them grow, creating those irreplaceable memories.

Professionally, Barry dedicated a significant portion of his life to the Cummins Engine Company, where he served diligently for over 30 years before enjoying a well-deserved retirement. But for a man like Barry, retirement wasn't about slowing down entirely. Oh no. His passion for golf led him to continue working at various local golf courses, a perfect blend of leisure and gentle activity. He enjoyed being around the greens, the camaraderie, the simple pleasure of the game itself. And honestly, beyond golf, he loved fishing too – those quiet moments of contemplation by the water.

Barry was preceded in death not only by his parents but also by his dear sister, Barbara Jean Fiesbeck. Yet, his spirit, his kindness, his unwavering devotion to those he loved, lives on in all who knew him. He leaves a void, certainly, but also a rich tapestry of memories, a legacy woven with affection and genuine warmth.

Friends and family are invited to pay their respects during visitation on Wednesday, November 6, 2024, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., at the Jewell-Rittman Family Funeral Home. A service to celebrate Barry’s wonderful life will be held there as well, on Thursday, November 7, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. Following the service, Barry will be laid to rest at Garland Brook Cemetery, a peaceful final resting place.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly suggests memorial contributions be made to Our Hospice of South Central Indiana or the First Christian Church. These organizations, it was clear, held a special place in Barry's heart, reflecting his generous spirit. Barry Wayne Peel, for once, truly lived a life that touched many, and he will be remembered, always, with fondness and immense gratitude.