EARL B. BARNES
Earl B. Barnes, 86, a lifelong Norwich area resident, passed away Wednesday morning, June 15, 2016, at the Norwich Rehabilitation & Nursing Center with his family by his side.
Earl was born in Norwich on October 12, 1929 the son of Albert & Florence (Bennett) Barnes. He grew up in Norwich on the family farm and attended the Norwich schools. A hard worker throughout his life he began working as a young boy on the family farm. His first job was hauling milk and subsequently gained employment with Victory Markets. He remained with Victory for over 30 years retiring as a truck driver when they closed. During his employment he earned many safe driving awards and was a member of the Teamsters Union.
Following his retirement Earl continued to put his driving skills to work picking up vehicles for local car dealerships. He also enjoyed a good game of pitch, took many trips with his wife that were coordinated by Mary Genung and after entering Norwich Rehab. he became an expert skip-bo player.
Above all else Earl was a true family man, always being devoted to his family. If there was something his wife, children and grandchildren wanted he would find a way to do it or get it.
On July 18, 1954 in Norwich he married Mary Humphrey who survives. Besides his wife Mary of Norwich he is survived by his daughter Patricia Roma and husband John of Norwich, a brother Clayton Barnes and wife Marion of Norwich, his grandchildren Andrew Smith and his significant other Jennifer Mazzarella of Norwich and Amy Korver and husband Erik of New Berlin. Also surviving are his great grandchildren Charles Smith and Korryn Korver, several nieces and nephews and his sister-in-laws Veva Kline and Betty Barnes.
Earl was predeceased by his daughters Deborah Barnes in 1964, Pamela Barnes in 1970 and his brothers Hubert & Richard.
A funeral service for Earl will be held on Monday, June 20, at noon from the R.J.Fahy Funeral Home. The Rev. Douglas Horne, Chaplain of the Norwich Rehabilitation & Nursing Center, will officiate. Interment will follow in the Mt. Hope Cemetery. Friends may call at the R.J.Fahy Funeral Home on Monday from 10-12.
Following the interment service at Mt. Hope Cemetery family and friends are invited to the American Legion in Norwich for a Celebration of Life Lunch in honor of Earl’s entire life.
Please consider memorial contributions to the Chenango Memorial Hospital Foundation, 179 No. Broad St., Norwich, NY 13815 with checks made payable to the CMH Foundation or to the Norwich Emergency Squad, East Main St., Norwich, NY 13815.