Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
Kevin Barner Obituary
A funeral will be at 11 a.m. Friday at Willow Community Center. A public viewing will begin at 10 a.m. Burial will be after the service at Wasilla Aurora Cemetery. Father Leroy Clementich will officiate. Pallbearers will be Gene Newman, Sam Newman, Mark Anselm, Carl Hemmer, Cindy Hemmer and Raymond Anselm. A potluck will be held at the community center during and after the burial.
Kevin was born May 21, 1992, in Anchorage to Traci Barner of Willow and Mike Barner of Anchorage. At the age of 1 1/2, Kevin was diagnosed with cerebral palsy. Although he was challenged, Kevin always made the best of every situation that crossed his path.
He was home schooled through Matanuska Susitna Borough School District Correspondence Study School. He had completed the seventh grade.
He was also a member of St. Christopher's of Willow.
His family wrote: "Kevin was like a magnet -- he drew people to him and is loved very much. He loved the color purple, listening to music and dancing along with it, going to the Talkeetna Moose Dropping Festival, camping, watching "Sponge Bob Square Pants," his cat, Scrapper, and most of all, his pup, Princess. Kevin had a very loving personality with character and mischievousness."
Kevin is survived by his mother, Traci Barner of Willow; father, Mike Barner of Anchorage; grandparents, Robert and Donna Anselm of Willow; grandmother, Donna Waldron of Willow, grandfather, Gordon Barner of Idaho; great-grandmother, Billie Benton of Jackson, Miss.; and many uncles, aunts, cousins and friends from everywhere.
Memorial donations may be sent to Wells Fargo Bank to the Kevin Barner Memorial Fund. The fund will be used to purchase equipment for children with special needs.
Arrangements are with Valley Funeral Home and Crematory in Wasilla.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Kevin Barner
Sponsored by Traci E. Barner (Mom).
December 29, 2014
Granma & Grandpa love and miss you every day, be dangerous
December 29, 2009
Kevin "Robert Bear Paw",
It is now three years that you have been exploring the heavens, not a day goes by that there isn't something that has a memory of you. Mom LOVES and MISSES you every day.
Be Dangerous!
May 21, 2009
Kevin, Happy 17th Birth Day! Not a day goes by that you are not thought of. Love and miss you every day. Be dangerous!
Love, Mom
naomi gravdal
December 28, 2008
Kevin,
Tomorrow will be the anniversary of your death. All my memories of you make me smile and laugh. You'd be so proud of your mom. Everything she learned about taking caring of you while respecting who you were as a person, she's doing that for other people now. She's really good at what she does and she touches peoples' lives. I know you're proud of her. You always were.
I love the message on your headstone and the skull and cross bones looks FABULOUS! Miss you often...be dangerous!
love, Naomi
Joan Narsavich
May 21, 2008
Dear Kevin,
You and your family are in my thoughts today (and so many other days), as it is your birthday.
Your friends at MSSCA miss you very much.
Love, Joan
Michelle Anselm
January 24, 2008
Kevin-you are so very missed young man. Your picture hangs on sissy's wall and on our fridge along with grandma and grandpa and we think of you each day. I know your mom misses you terrible as do Bob and Donnie. We love and miss you. Cousin Michelle, Shantyle and Shayne.
Traci Barner
December 29, 2007
Kevin-"Robert Bear Paw" Mom can not believe a year has went by since you passed away. There is not a day that goes by that I don't think about you or see something that makes me think of you. I miss you so much! I cry about you being gone, then I think of something silly you have done, and even some of those tough RULES you had, and it gets me to laughing. I Love and miss you-Be Dangerous- Mom
Teri Carr
February 5, 2007
Kevin,
The day I met your mother I received two blessings. I was blessed with the dear friendship of your mom, and I was blessed with getting to know you through her. I remember the day you, mom and grandmom came to my place for a visit. Mom opened the door to the van and Amber, my big red dog, jumped in the back with you. You two couldn’t get enough of each other. Amber’s a great judge of character, and how she loved up to you!! I’ll never forget the times your mom teased me about my chubby thighs. You’d say “Huh, uh!” and get that business hand going. You made me so proud and although it hurts me to see you go, I am so grateful for the short time I had to know you. You and your mom have been, and will continue to be, an inspiration to me. I know there are open loving arms at your destination. Once you get settled in, watch over your mom, she may need a guardian angel. Be Dangerous!
Love,
Carr
naomi gravdal
February 3, 2007
Kevin,
I remember the first day I met you up at Willow preschool. You had those big beautiful eyes like your mom, you were so long and lean, and you had a great sense of humor. That’s how I knew right away that you had a lively intelligence. Over the years you and your mom gave me more gray hairs than all my other students put together--all those tricks and practical jokes!
It’s hard to have you gone. There have been lots of tears, Robert Bearpaw. But every time I get to feeling sad I remember something funny you did and then I start to laugh. Whenever I think about you what comes to mind is all the things you loved. You had so much enthusiasm for life.
You loved Jon Bon Jovi, purple, skulls and anything to do with pirates. You loved Sponge Bob Square Pants, Scrappy your cat and oh you loved Princess your pup...petting her, fighting with her, having her rest on your chest and clean your chin. You loved your “women” and your women list. You were more successful at giving and getting kisses than any other 14 year old boy I ever met.
You had tough rules, that’s for sure. You knew your routine- how to get in and out of your chair, every meal, snack, medication and dosage of medication. And, boy, you let people know if they were wrong. You’d start waving that business hand. Your mom used to try and catch you off guard sometime to test your knowledge but she could never trick you. I know that made her proud.
You loved pumpkin pie and watches. I’m glad you finally got your got Uncle Mark’s watch.
You loved camping in the RV with your grandpa Bob and grandma Donna and mom. You especially loved the helicopter and train ride and whenever you came back you always had stories to tell and pictures to share.
You loved using your words and you had so many big ideas you wanted to get out just the right way. It was great to watch you and your mom do that together. When people were talking pure nonsense you didn’t mind telling them “Bull poop!”You made us amazed by using your fingers for counting. You made us respect you when you used your business hand to back us off. And you made us laugh when you shared your special gesture you first started for Grandpa. Your face was wonderfully expressive. You had your happy and sad looks. And so many others. I hope someone writes them all down on this website. I especially liked your proud look and your thoroughly disgusted look. And I laughed so hard when you gave your grandma the “shut your **** pie hole “ look. She’d laugh, too! And you’d always let her have her 5 kisses and one extra. Never mind that she always tried to steal one or two extra. You’d back her off at first but you’d usually take pity on her and let her have a few more.
You loved your mom. You thought she was funny and smart and on days she was off at college you were so proud of her. Even when you missed her. And if you didn’t want to hear the number 4 ever again--well that was fine with her. She’d just never say it again. There aren’t many moms like that, Kevin. What a team!! A match made in heaven.
So many stories to tell. So many wonderful memories even in the saddest moments. We miss you and love you, Kevin! You fought for life when you were born and you fought for life heroically on your way out. And in between you loved it and lived it 100%. That was your big gift to me and for that just let me say, “I appreciate it!”
CRAIG MOORE
February 3, 2007
Bob and Donna, I really am sorry for your loss but I know that God has a special purpose for Kevin and I know that he is laughing and smiling down on you right now. LOVE, CRAIG
Wesley Meek
February 3, 2007
Dear Kevin: I never met you but I have heard alot about you and you were a great gift to all you family and friends.I wish I had met you but I guess the Lord had other plans for you. Bob and Donna I am really sorry for your loss but I am sure Kevins time with you made his life complete. God Bless you for making Kevins life here on earth a great experience.Love you all Wes
Traci Barner
January 29, 2007
Kevin-"Robert Bear Paw"-My days is empty without. Your soul has set forth on a journey that feels no pain nor aches your spirit all aglow. My heart is empty without you. You are traveling to places never before visited. Your life will hold a large amount of love and numerous memories. The heart of the heavens will hold your spirit-Be Dangerous-I Love You, Mom
Velda Strack
January 28, 2007
Kevin "Robert", though you lived so far away in miles you was so close to my heart. I have so many memories of the things you did how proud your mom was of each new thing you accomplished how when the drill sergeant was gone you and grandmom would call doing your "we'll do any ____thing we want to." you will be greatly missed xoxo great aunt velda
Gail & Jerry Grigar
January 23, 2007
Dear Bob, Donna and Traci,
Although we never met Kevin, we feel as though we got to know him in the pictures and letters you sent. God Bless you all, you are in our prayers.
Alan Minter
January 23, 2007
You will be in our thoughts and prayers. God bless each of you in this time of loss.
Gregory Minter
January 23, 2007
Very sorry about your loss. God bless and please take care.
Kenny Minter
January 23, 2007
Very sorry to hear of your loss. God bless and please take care.
Eddie Daltwas
January 23, 2007
So very sorry about the loss you have suffered. Kevin's in heaven watching over each of you.
George and Jean Daltwas
January 23, 2007
Dearest Bob, Donna, and Traci,
Though we never met Kevin, we feel as if we knew him by watching him grow up with all the pictures you would send. So very sorry to hear of your loss.
Vicki Erps
January 22, 2007
Dearest Traci,Bob,Donnie,and Mark.
God takes the best people first.Love and God Bless all of you
Mike&Vicki Erps
Willcox Arizona
Lisa Heatherly
January 21, 2007
So Sorry to hear about your loss. Remember the good times, and rejoice knowing you will see Kevin again in heaven. May God help you in your timne of sorrow, and hear ach. We are so verry sorry for your loss.
Regenia Conway
January 19, 2007
Traci, Donnie & Bob,
Kevin was blessed to have loving family who took such joy in having him. God has a plan for all he does. May he comfort you during this hard time. You are in our prayers, eventhough we are so far apart.
Love Gina, Bernice, Will
Ken and Sigrid Lewis
January 18, 2007
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well-lived.
Bernie & Inge Nelsen
January 18, 2007
Dear Traci, Donna, & Bob
Kevin was a very brave and courageous young man with many good friends. We only met Kevin a few times, but loved him because of his courage and charm. We will miss him.
Kelle Thompson-Grube
January 14, 2007
Traci- I'm so sorry to hear about Kevin my thoughts and prayers are with you. Kevin will be missed.
Love Kelle
Winnie Hill
January 13, 2007
Kevin, Thank you for all the wonderful memories. I never regretted risking my job for those treasured kisses! Every day, when I look at my teapopt collection, I see the one you gave me for Christmas, and will never forget you! Have you met up with Bubba? hugs, Winnie
Mary Olson
January 12, 2007
Kevin, Your loving whoops that always made me glad to see you will be missed. You made our time working together something special with treasured memories. You will be missed.
Dick Anselm
January 10, 2007
Kevin sorry I never got to meet you
but you will be in our thoughts and prayers.
Dick & Dianna Anselm
Sharon Howell
January 10, 2007
May the Lord bless and keep you in your time of sorrow.
your friend.
Penni Cross
January 9, 2007
Dearest Darling Kevin - I am sure that by now you know how much you were loved. You just had that special ability to bring out the best in everyone. I have never known anyone who was as adored as you, by your mom and especially your Grandma Donna and Grandpa Bob. I was blessed to see how much they loved you, and you gave it right back at them too!! We will all miss you but I know that God picked you out and decided He just didn't want to be without you anymore. You need to know that you dont have to worry about your mom and Grandma and Grandpa, as on your special day I saw how much our little Willow Community loves and respects them. No one can ever take your place in their hearts, but maybe your wonderful memories will help heal the hole in their hearts. We'll see you again someday, when we all get to have that peaceful life with Jesus, our Saviour and best friend. Your friends, Penni and Alisa Cross
Richelle Robinson
January 8, 2007
Although I never had the chance to meet Kevin - I always had heard the stories of how wonderful the two of you were together. I pray you will be blessed with the special memories of his life. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Pat and Ron Rollins (Hunsicker)
January 8, 2007
Dear Traci, Our love and prayers are with you daily. You were the special mom that Kevin needed for his journey on this earth. Now he is freed - his body whole and he awaits the time when you will again be together as a family. We are so proud of all the love and care you gave to Kevein. What joy he brought to all those who had the chance to know him and love him. We look forward to seeing you this summer, getting together for lunch and having a good chat. Until then, know that you and the family are in our hearts and thoughts. Love, The Rollins, Allen, TX
Terry Turkington
January 7, 2007
Traci: I love you girl. I know Kevin is up there with his "woman's list" tucked into his pocket. Avery and Gaylynn were proud to be on it! I have always said you were one of the most crazy and awesome people I have ever known, and an even more awesome Mom. You have my respect because of the Mom you are, along with your strength and courage to go for "it". Kevin loved you like no one else. He will be watching you, so continue to be dangerous!
Linda Perry
January 7, 2007
Hi Kevin;
I never got to meet you in person, but, I've seen movies when you were first born. You were so tiny. I've seen lots of picture of you growing up and now a teenager. I've heard a lot of good things about you from your Grandma Donna, talking to my Mom (Clara) on the phone.
You know how Grandma's like to talk about their special Grandchildren. My mom say's that you're a very special blessing from God.
Kevin, I know that you're up there in Heaven with God and all his angels around you. Our hearts and preayers go out to your family. They're going to miss you very much!
Clara Gramlisch
January 7, 2007
To Kevin:
I remember the first time I met you in June 1999. I came out to Alaska with your great Grandma Peg and Great Gradma Billie to visit your Grandma Donna & Grandpa Bob.
KEVIN, It was a blessing to meet such a special little person like you. Your eyes just sparkled with joy and happiness. I want to thank you for letting me hug and kiss on you like your Grandma Donna does.
Only God knows why he blesses a family & friends with such a special little guy like you. And only God knows why he took you away to be with him. But, we do know that you have a very special mom (Tracy), Grandma Donna, Grandpa Bob and Uncle Mark that you"ll always be in their hearts forever. And Mine too!
Love You Kevin!
God Bless all of You.
Katherine Ruf
January 6, 2007
Kevin we never met you but we feel like we knew you because of your Loving Grandparents Bob and Donna as they would share pictures and happy stories about you and the joy you were to them. You will be missed but your cherished memories will be forever. Oklahoma Friends Katherine Ruf and Dora Tennyson
michelle and jenna campbell
January 6, 2007
kevin-you and your mother [both] are such a special part my life,I thank you so much for all the years of joy and laughter.Its been such a privilege to watch the[two of you] as you touched so many others lives with your srength, courage and awesome sense of humor.God Bless you kevin for all the happiness you brought into this world!!! 'we love you', michelle and jenna ps: love here on earth,love beyond the grave,there are no roads,[our] love for you, cant pave.
Brittney Boitz
January 5, 2007
Take comfort in knowing that now you have a special guardian angel to watch over you.
Kathy Kinneen
January 5, 2007
I never met Kevin face to face until today....Traci your son is very handsome. I knew Kevin though, I knew him through the sparkle in his moms eyes when she talked aobut him and the love in her laughter as she shared stories. Traci, thank you for sharing your precious "wild man" child with me. I thank the Good Lord that He brought you both into my life, you have truly been a blessing to me. I love you girl. May the Lord bless and watch over you and your family through this hard time and may you all find peace.
Pam Howett Catherine Fuller
January 5, 2007
To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say...
but first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.
I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above.
Here, there's no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love.
Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I'm with you every morning, noon and night.
That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through,
God picked me up and hugged me and He said, "I welcome you."
It's good to have you back again; you were missed while you were gone.
As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on.
I need you here badly; you're part of my plan.
There's so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man."
God gave me a list of things, that he wished for me to do.
And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.
And when you lie in bed at night, the day's chores put to flight.
God and I are closest to you....in the middle of the night.
When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years
because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears.
But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain.
Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.
I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned.
But if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.
But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is o'er.
I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.
There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;
but together we can do it by taking one day at a time.
It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too...
that as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.
If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain,
then you can say to God at night......"My day was not in vain."
And now I am contented....that my life has been worthwhile,
knowing as I passed along the way, I made somebody smile.
So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low,
just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.
When you're walking down the street, and you've got me on your mind;
I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.
And when it's time for you to go.... from that body to be free,
remember you're not going.....you're coming here to me.
Ruth Ann Mahaffey (author)
©Copyright 1998-2007
Diane Morris
January 4, 2007
Kevin brought laughs and smiles to everyone that knew him. I will never forget the first day I went into his home to service him as a special education teacher. After looking me over he gave me a big smile, so I guess I met his high expectations. Before leaving that day he wanted a hug. The second visit he wanted to see my watch. I took it off and let him play with it, telling him I would have to take it back when I left as it was a special gift from my husband. Kevin tried to hide it from me when it was time for me to go. Every visit afterwards that would be the first thing he would reach for and he would laugh as he tried to hide it from me when it was time to go. I had the pleasure of being his teacher for two years and I enjoyed every minute of it! Kevin had a wonderful mother who taught him through her science classes. I couldn't keep up with the words that Kevin knew and understood. His family was always very supportive of him and it showed in Kevin. With all his disabilities he was one of the most pleasant loving child I ever worked with. Thank you Traci and Kevin for letting me be a part of your life! Kevin you will be missed and I will think of you everytime I look at my watch!
John, Glenda and Jacob Crandall
January 4, 2007
Kevin, you were such a special, special blessing to so many. We loved you from afar, but you were always near to us in our hearts. Your Mom and Grandmom and Grandpa loved you so very, very much and will miss you so very, very much. Grandmom Donna was always so proud of you and sent us so many pictures of her wonderful boy. Your family comforted you in life and now you are comforting them with such beautiful, special memories.
Linda Anselm
January 4, 2007
You will be missed by all the family. I enjoyed all the times I got to be with you and the special hugs we shared. I love you and we will take care of "Mom", Princess and Scrapper for you. God Loves You
Uncle Raymond, Aunt Linda, Shayne & Shantyle
Kimberly Kay Swinburne
January 4, 2007
Kevin- I never had the pleasure to meet you in person, but the way your mother would tell me all the wonderful and crazy things you two did together and the exceptional bond between each other, I always enjoyed listening and sharing your laughter. Love ya buddy Kim and Colton.
January 4, 2007
My precious little love bug. Ole grandmom loves you so much. You gave me so much happiness.
I'll miss you
Love ole Grandmom
Heli ride July 2004 Mom & Kevin with handler.
January 4, 2007
Kevin & Mom Byers Lake Veterans Momorial May 2005
January 4, 2007
Kevin, Mom & Grandmom May 2005
January 4, 2007
Robyn Lister (friend of Ina)
January 4, 2007
He sounds like a neat guy. I'm sure he'll be missed.
Judy Killion
January 4, 2007
Kevin Has blessed everyone that he had touch and will always be in our hearts and prayers. Our prayers go out to each and every family member.
Cupcake & Jack
larry & judy myers
January 4, 2007
we never got to know Kevin, but we knew his grandpa and grandma Anslem.
We are the family Kevin never knew, but we will meet you someday Kevin and we know you are whole now, with no pain and you are with the Lord.
God bless you and we are proud of you. Love in Christ!
Michelle Sanchez
January 4, 2007
I have never met Kevin or his mother Traci, but I do know that they are extraordinary people. My little sister Ginger has had the privilage to know them. Sharing his life story with me has made me feel like I know him.
My heart goes out to Traci and his family and friends.
God Bless!
Carol Robinson
January 4, 2007
Thanks for sharing Kevin with us. We so enjoyed the pictures that Donnie sent to us. We continue to remember you all in our prayers.
With love and sympathy,
O'Neal and Martha Adams
Ron and Carol Robinson
Tammie Seltenreich
January 3, 2007
Our hearts and thoughts are with you. Kevin was the most amazing person I have ever met. Be "dangerous" Kevin...
Joan Narsavich
January 3, 2007
Kevin,
You lived your life with such spunk, (twisted) humor, and love-- making friends and leaving memories wherever you went. You will not be forgotten.
Robin Burdick
January 3, 2007
Oh what a sense of humor! Kevin had THE GIFT. I feel touched knowing and laughing with him and Traci.
Jeanni Angus
January 3, 2007
Kevin: I totally know you are sitting in that red car and driving that gecko crazy! Hope that brings a smile to your Mom like you have always done...hugs - Jeanni, George and Maddy Angus (Palmer)
johnnie tolleson
January 3, 2007
our deepest sympathyi hurt for you
Ina Thomas
January 3, 2007
GOD BLESS, AND KEEP ALL OF YOU IN PEACE. I LOVE ALL OF YOU. GREAT ANT INA
Ginger Ashley
January 3, 2007
Traci and Kevin were quite the pair. They crammed a lifetime of love and friendship into 14 beautiful years. It was an honor and a blessing to know both of them. Rest in peace Kevin.
Tami Anderson
January 3, 2007
Kevin will always be remembered as the loving soul that he was. He has touched the lifes of many people and I was blessed to be one on them.
Daphane Mathis
January 3, 2007
You will always be with God and he will care for you at your new home. You are one of his angels that he allowed to bring blessings to those you touch during your time on earth.
Showing 1 - 62 of 62 results
Make a Donation
in Kevin Barner's name
Memorial Events
for Kevin Barner
How to support Kevin's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Kevin Barner's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
