Robert passed away Wednesday, June 6, 2018 at Rose Arbor Hospice in Kalamazoo.
He was born August 16, 1942 in Dowagiac, the son of Lester and Jean (Spivey) Barnes. Bob proudly served his country in the US Army. He had worked at Checker Motors for 29 years, working his way up to vice president of manufacturing and retired in 2005.
Bob enjoyed basketball, tennis, bike riding, solving problems, traveling and spending several winters in Florida.
On September 19, 1964 in South Bend, IN, he married Betty Cole who survives.
Also surviving are his sons, Brian and Jeff Barnes; grandsons, William and Paul; brothers, David (Sandy) Barnes and Mark (Maria) Barnes; brother-in-law, Thomas (Elaine) Cole along with several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
Friends may visit with Bob’s family starting at 10:00 A.M., Monday, June 11, 2018 at the Winkel Funeral Home, Otsego until the time of the funeral service at 11:00 A.M., with Pastor Don Boss officiating.
Burial will follow at Alamo Center Cemetery in Alamo Township.
Contributions in memory of Bob may be made to The Alzheimer’s Association or the Rose Arbor Hospice.
Messages of condolence may be posted at www.WinkelFuneralHome.com.
Offer Condolence for the family of Robert P. “Bob” Barnes
Condolence Messages
Mark Barnes
June 7, 2018 at 5:49 pm
To my big brother when I was young, a shining example of a family man in middle age and finally my friend in these senior years. You lived a full and successful life loving your family. Thank you for being my brother.
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Dianne Jackson
June 7, 2018 at 11:01 pm
Mark, Maria and family, I am so shocked by this sad news! All of you Barnes boys will always be so special to me just like your Dad..I was just at your childhood home on June 6th sharing my sweet memories of all of you with the new owner! God Bless you all in this time of sadness but know he is with your Mom and Dad and rejoice in that knowledge!
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Judy Sweet
June 7, 2018 at 11:31 pm
rest in peace cousin. you use to help me with catching fish, i hope the lakes are full for you
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Jim and Peggy Hart
June 8, 2018 at 10:00 am
We are so glad for the happy memories you have! Mark, your family and your brothers’ families have our sympathy. We will be praying for you!
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Anne Kauffman Stamp
June 8, 2018 at 10:37 am
To Bobs family my sympathy. Grew up in Dowagiac with him and family. So very sorry to hear this.
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Robert Monaghan
June 8, 2018 at 7:40 pm
‘To those who stand alone, you are like my own.’ (Emily Dickinson)
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Connie Plucienik
June 8, 2018 at 9:32 pm
Condolences to Roberts Fanily from the Dowagiac High School Class of 1960.
Our Classmate will be missed.
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Terry & Char Bonnell
June 8, 2018 at 9:48 pm
Betty,
Our love and prayers go to you during this difficult time. While God is your anchor, I know the loss of Bob will leave a hole in your heart. We will miss Bob and love you.
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Dave MacDonald
June 9, 2018 at 4:49 am
To Bob’s family and friends, my profound sympathy.
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James Walker
June 15, 2018 at 7:59 am
My sincere condolences to Bob’s family. Bob was the best boss I ever had at Checker Motors. He was so full of energy and optimism and taught me to never give up. Learned a lot of life lessons from Bob!
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Mark D Hall
June 16, 2018 at 8:44 pm
RIP BOB!
I took over your Dowagiac Daily News paper route A few years ago ! You taught me the ropes of doing a good job ! Thanks Bob !
GOD SPEED ! Our paths will cross again some day … just not real soon !
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