By RAUL GARCIA JR | Lansing News Wire
HOLT, MI — Lloyd James “Jim” Barnhart, a lifelong Lansing-area resident and beloved Holt community figure, passed away on Saturday, July 26, 2025. He was 78.
Born March 5, 1947, to Lloyd and Marilyn (Sanders) Barnhart in Lansing, Jim led a life marked by dedication, daring, and deep devotion to those he loved. A self-made entrepreneur, Jim founded and operated Barnhart and Son, Inc., an underground construction and development business he ran for more than five decades.
Known for his boundless energy and infectious humor, Jim brought joy and light wherever hewent. But it was his love for speed and competition that made him a local legend. A seasoned snowmobile racer across Michigan, Jim also tore up the tracks at Spartan Speedway and competed in ARCA events. He was instrumental in building Springport Mid-Michigan Speedway, where he held the fastest lap record for six years.
His shelves of trophies and medals told only part of the story; Jim’s passion for racing was matched only by his fierce love for animals. He founded Cool Cat Rescue, a nonprofit dedicated to saving the lives of stray and abandoned cats.
Beyond the racetrack and rescue work, Jim’s zest for life took him down countless highways on his Harley-Davidson. He lived every day as an adventure, guided by laughter, loyalty, and love.
Jim is survived by his devoted wife, Connie Barnhart; his children, Tammy (Jeffrey) Tench, Trisha (Ted) Harkins, Christy (Mitch) Whitford, and Logan Barnhart; and grandchildren and great-grandchildren who brought him endless pride and joy. He also leaves behind his sister Penny Kalis, as well as many nieces, nephews, and cherished friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Lloyd and Marilyn; siblings Joe Barnhart, Peggy Strait, and Tom Barnhart; and brother-in-law Scott Kalis.
A private family burial has taken place at Deepdale Memorial Gardens in Lansing.
Memorial contributions may be made in Jim’s name to the Ingham County Humane Society or the Ingham County Animal Shelter.