Darren Barnes

Darren Barnes' legacy is a life well lived and played. Playful, compassionate, generous and a friend to many, he was a gregarious man who loved his family and took delight in his many, many friends. Known as Barney to his friends, Darren's sense of humor and endless energy was contagious and admired by many. Darren was found dead on Wednesday, May 11, 2011. Born January 21, 1965 in Healdsburg, he was the youngest of five children. Darren was employed by PG&E for 26 years in the General Construction department having worked at the Geysers Geothermal Plant as well as Diablo Canyon in San Luis Obispo. Darren was deeply devoted to his children, whether it was preparing the fields or coaching his daughters' Windsor softball teams; cheering on his son as he played football for Healdsburg High, or attending his daughters' cheerleading, gymnastics or ballet recitals. As a young boy, Darren spent many summers in Hawaii where his appreciation for outdoor play grew as did his enthusiasm for surfing and playing softball, which he continued into his adulthood. He was the Assistant Coach for the Windsor Girls Softball team for four years and was an instrumental part of building the current softball facility. He loved sharing and playing with all his children...even if it meant plenty of sore muscles and aches and pains the next day. "Darren never passed up an opportunity to celebrate life", said his wife of 24 years, Patty Barnes. A lover of the great outdoors, Darren appreciated Sonoma County's unspoiled beauty and bounty - he could be found hunting, fishing and camping with friends and family throughout the year. He also enjoyed playing golf and pool with his many friends. Darren's dimpled smile and gregarious laughter were sure to win you over, and make you family or friend for life. You could always find him in a crowded room just by hearing his laugh. Darren was always ready to help any of his friends with anything they needed. Darren is survived by his wife Patty, daughters Stacy, Tara and Brittney, sons Joe and Anthony, Mother, Elva Johnson, Father and Step-Mother, Bill and Barbara Barnes, In-laws Darvin and Priscilla Schlag, brothers, Mike and Patty Barnes; Don Cribbins, sister Kim and Louie DiGrande, sister in-law Cindy and Russ Barbaria, brother in-law Rich and Duffy Della-Maggiora, plus many extended family members including aunts, uncles, cousins and countless friends. A celebration of Darren's life will take place Monday, May 23, 2011 at 2:00 p.m. at Johnson's Winery in Healdsburg. If desired, the family requests memorial contributions be made to the Windsor High Softball Program (837-7767) or the charity of your choice. ARRANGEMENTS BY WINDSOR HEALDSBURG MORTUARY