Bernard F. "Barney" Browning, 87, of Indianapolis, formerly of Montrose passed into eternity at 2:30 a.m. on Tuesday, February 28, 2012 at his home with his family at his side.

A prayer service will be held at 9:30 a.m., Saturday, March 3, 2012 at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church, Montrose and burial in Montrose Cemetery with military graveside rites. Visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., Friday evening at the church. Memorials may be made to the donor's choice. Bauer Funeral Home in Effingham is assisting the family with arrangements. www.bauerfh.com

Barney was born on November 20, 1924 in Effingham County, the son of Elmer and Anna (Faber) Browning. He married Margarueite (Watkins) and she preceded him in death in 1956. Barney later married Dorothy (Kretz) Beninger and she also preceded him in death. In June of 1979, he married Claire Minton and she survives.

He was a decorated combat veteran of Solomon Islands Campaign in the Philippines of WWII and served with the 37th Infantry Division. Barney was a member of the D.A.V., V.F.W., Knights of Columbus and retired from Allison Transmission in Indianapolis.

In his passing he leaves behind his wife, Claire of Indianapolis; son, Don Browning of Montrose; three step-sons, David Beninger of Indianapolis, David Minton of Bend, Oregon and John Minton of Red Bluff, California; step-daughter, Eve Minton of Indianapolis; brother, Carl (Pauline) Browning of Mattoon; two sisters, Marcella "Sally" Hilton and Ruby Harris, both of Montrose; 11 grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

Barney was preceded in death by his parents; wives, Margarueite and Dorothy; son, Nick Browning; two brothers-in-law and two step-sons.