James K. Tarlton, age 69 of Garrett, died on Monday, December 06, 2010 at his residence. He was born January 18, 1941 in Auburn to Marion James and Helen (Hatas) Tarlton, they preceded him in death. He was an engineer at Eaton Corp for 35 years before retiring in 2001. He married Debbie K. Secrest on November 1, 2002 and she survives in Garrett. He is also survived by 3 children with his former wife Faye; James Jr. and Beth Tarlton, Dave and Wendy Tarlton and Bobbie and Glenn Geyer all of Garrett, 3 step children; Keith Secrest of Waterloo, John Secrest of Garrett and Melissa Secrest of Garrett; 2 brothers, Marion and Peggy Tarlton of Garrett and Steve Tarlton of Fort Wayne; 2 sisters, Melanie and Don Bateman of Wolcottville and Judy and Richard Deleccany of Benton Harbor, MI; 7 grandchildren; Henry, Samantha, Brian and Blake Tarlton and Alex, Justin and Alyssa Shidler; 6 step grandchildren; Keegan, Branston, Dylan, Rayaana and Ava Secrest and Ethan Lester and 3 great grandchildren; Eli, Keria and Chole. Visitation will be held on Thursday, December 9, 2010 from 5-7 p.m. at Thomas Funeral Home with the funeral at 7p.m. Funeral Celebrant Ryan Myers will officiate. Memorials are to St. Martin's Healthcare or Disabled Veterans.