Francis Oliver Barnes died unexpectedly at his home on April 11, 2015 in Willits. He was 68.
Francis was born on November 29, 1946 in Willits to Oliver and Agnes (Vieria) Barnes of Covelo. His interest in business began early in life and by the time he was in high school he was working part time for the local bank. After graduating from Round Valley High School in 1965; he spent his summers working for Cal Fire while attending Burbank Business College. Following graduation from college in 1968 Francis returned to Willits and began working. During his lifetime he worked many different jobs. He was the Production Manager for over 15 years at Little Lake Industries until it closed. Later, he was the night manager at Tower Market and most recently he owned Adams & Barnes Accounting until his retirement in 2011.
In the 1980's and 1990's Francis helped organize the Second Sunday Socials in Mendocino County.
Francis is survived by his partner of 24 years, Darrell Carpenter; his daughter Lisa (Gustavo) Leon; grandchildren Fabian & Briana Leon; the mother of his daughter Linda Barnes; his sister Patricia Tucker; his niece Toni Ann Moss and her children Kennidy and Tyler. Darrell's parents Duane and Nona Carpenter and his siblings DeeLynn (Cutler) Carpenter, Joan (Hardy) Maahs, Sally (Rocky) Provencher, and Mark (Deanna) Carpenter and their extended families.
Francis was preceded in death by his parents Oliver and Agnes Barnes, and his brother Jeffery Barnes.
Francis love for travel began at an early age with cross-country car trips with his parents and sister to visit his Mother's relatives in Massachusetts. He and Darrell enjoyed traveling which he captured on film. Their journeys took them around the world to Thailand, Italy, and Mexico. Travel in the United States to Washington, Oregon, Utah, Virginia, and Hawaii.
Francis never met a stranger; collecting and keeping friends over the years from all walks of life. He remained in contact with many of his childhood friends, cousins, former co workers and their families. Francis welcomed any excuse to gather for a meal, attend a local play, go to the movies, watch a parade, show off their garden, visit the coast, spend time with their dog Nigel, and his favorite finding a good bargain. He was always ready to plan the next event; making sure that everyone was included.
A Celebration of Francis' Life will take place on Sunday, May 17 at 3:30 p.m. at Recreation Grove Park (corner of E. Commercial & Lenore Streets) in Willits. All are welcome to attend and share their favorite stories and memories. Attendees may bring an appetizer or side dish to share at the barbecue.
In Francis' memory, Darrell, his friends and family would encourage everyone to embrace life Francis style by including family and friends and sharing memories.
Arrangements under the care and direction of Anker-Lucier Mortuary.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Sponsored by WillitsNews.com.
I am sorry for the loss of your love one. During the days ahead may prayer comfort and strengthen you. 1Thessaloniains 5:17
Harper
June 18, 2015
To the family I send my sympathy may you be comfort from the God of comfort. Please know you are not alone in your grief and mourning, Almighty God is close to the brokenhearted; he saves all those crushed in spirit. Psalm 147:3, Psalm 83:18,
Marcie,Rosa
June 12, 2015
My sincerest condolences to the Barnes Family. May the God of all comfort be with you at this difficult time. (Psalms 83:18)
May 30, 2015
I will forever remember Francis as he was, a gentle pleasant man always in a happy mood. We spoke many times over the twenty that I knew him and I always felt that it was valued time for both of us.
Andy Zanardi
May 18, 2015
Francis was a true friend and advisor. It was fun to be around him. He is missed.
Georgine Hultz
May 16, 2015
So sorry to hear of his passing...RIP Francis.
Walt Hess
May 14, 2015
Always a shy, sweet person. Growing up and attending Round Valley Elementary, we were all friends.
So sorry to hear of his passing.
Betty Matthews
May 10, 2015
My fond memories of Francis go way back when we were only about 4 years old. So sorry, he passed so young.
Donna Atwater Hixon
May 10, 2015
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