Herbert David Barnickel, 73, of Tidioute, PA, passed on Tuesday, September 19, 2023, in St. Vincent Hospital, Erie, PA.

He was born in Washington, PA on February 13, 1950, the son of the late Herbert Jacob and Genevive Sprowls Barnickel Zulick. Herb was graduated from Trinity High School and Washington and Jefferson College in Washington, PA.

He worked in psychological services and corrections as an addiction counselor, retiring from the State of PA. He was a member of Tidioute Presbyterian Church for over 40 years. Together with Carol, they fulfilled his dream of living in Tidioute, a dream that started with Herb’s father and will continue with his granddaughter Genevieve (Ginny). He was a member of Coal Miners for Console, making Shannon a proud coal miner’s daughter.

Herb was an avid gun collector and had a love for hunting which was matched only by his love for his daughter, son-in-law and granddaughter. His favorite time of the year was deer season and Thanksgiving. Last year, he spent this time at his home filled with family, food, laughter and joy. With the ability to work, teach and learn from home, his family spent much time over the last 3 years with Herb. He proudly watched Ginny learn about the water cycle as they sat on the deck over the Allegheny River together. When learning about the French and Indian War, he told her about the battle of Thompson Run. Herb attended a PACyber Charter School field trip to the Oil Creek and Titusville Railroad with his beautiful granddaughter who bears the name of his mother.

Herb was fiercely loyal and protective of those close to him. He was happy to help others and had a caring, giving spirit. Few situations intimidated him, he was just as comfortable working with inmates as he was attending his granddaughter’s theater performance. Anyone who spent time with him probably heard about Shannon’s teaching career and strong spirit reflective of his own; Chris’ military service, career at Penn State University and his role as the best husband and father on earth; and Ginny’s talents as an artist, academic achievements and most of all her kind, caring heart.  Herb was a lifetime member of the National Rifle Association.  He was also proud to be a Master Mason at Olive Temple Lodge, Free and Accepted Masons, Tionesta PA.

Herbert is survived by his former wife, Carol Barnickel; best friend, David Stanford; daughter, Shannon Barnickel Henry; son-in-law, SFC Christopher Henry; and granddaughter, Genevieve Henry.  A brother, Gregory Barnickel also survives.

A Celebration of Life will be held at the Warren State Hospital Interfaith Chapel, 33 Main Dr., Warren, PA. All are welcome to attend on Friday, October 6th, 2023, at 2:30 PM. E-mail condolences may be sent by visiting www.delewisfuneralhome.com. Those wishing to place memorials may do so to the Tidioute Presbyterian Church, 196 Main Street, Tidioute, PA 16351. The Donald E. Lewis Funeral Home Inc. has been entrusted with the funeral arrangements.