Michael Joseph Barto, Sr.

Michael J. Barto Sr., 77, of Erie, PA, passed away on Monday, September 7, 2026, surrounded by his family.

Born on August 10, 1949, to the late Alex J. and Sue C. (Boccio) Barto, Michael graduated from Erie Vo-Tech in 1967 and worked in Tool and Die from Erie to Saegertown. An entrepreneur with a passion for animals, he owned Mike’s Tropical Fish and later operated a pet shop in Girard/Fairview until 2005. He then ran a sharpening service for local groomers and veterinarians. Michael was also a lifetime member of the Moniuszko Singing Society and the Polish Sharpshooters.

He married Rebecca A. Barto on August 9, 1973, sharing 53 years of marriage. He was preceded in death by his brother, Alex R. Barto.

He is survived by his wife, Rebecca, and brother James D. Barto (Bonnie); children, Lori A. Barto, Shawn M. Barto (Laurie), Jody J. Barto (Michelle), and Michael J. Barto Jr. (Charlotte); 10 grandchildren; and 8 great-grandchildren.