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BORN
1967
DIED
2018
Robert Barnes Obituary
12/1/67 - 7/18/18
Born December 1, 1967 in Twin Falls, ID to Linda C. (Kepler) and Richard T. Barnes
Tragically taken from us July 18, 2018 while on his annual pilgrimage to San Diego Comic Con
Rob graduated from Jerome High School in 1986, where he stood out academically, graduating as Valedictorian. He had more friends than one could imagine, many of whom were still close at the time of his death. He moved to Boise in 1989 and began working at Kinko's, where he was employed as a graphic designer for 23 years.
Rob was intensely creative, funny, kind and loving. His friendships were deep; he had a way of making you feel as if you were his best friend. He loved JAWS and all things shark (how fitting that he passed during Shark Week), Star Wars, robots, music and horror movies. He especially loved going to Sci-fi movies on opening night, surrounded by 40 of his closest friends.
No one could tell a story like Rob. Each one was imbued with sound effects, humor and animated gestures.
Rob's brilliance as an artist is legendary. He worked in all mediums, one of his favorite being found objects. He created a life-size R2D2 model from things he found or collected, as just one example. He once said, "Keep crap. You never know when it will be perfect for a later project." He usually worked into the night, creating each piece with exacting detail. A quote from one of Rob's favorite movies, Blade Runner, says it well: "I make friends. They're toys. My friends are toys. I make them."
Several years ago, Rob met Chris Markley and the two formed a deep bond. They became roommates and the best of friends. They loved movies, trips to Ceramica, and their dogs, Loomis and Brutus. Every year, they saved their money and climbed in Chris's car to make the drive through the desert to San Diego for Comic Con. They revelled in the event and we all waited for their return to see the collection of treasures they'd picked up on the trip.
Survived by his mother, Linda Kepler; his father and wife, Rick and Donya Barnes; his sister and husband, Wendy and Clay Wallace; his nieces, Wren and Phoebe; and nephew, Blaze; as well as a large and loving extended family.
We will gather to celebrate the lives of Rob and Chris on August 25, 2018. Time and venue TBD. A Gofundme account has been set up to assist the families https://www.gofundme.com/the-rob-and-chris-memorial-fund
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Robert Barnes
Sponsored by The Idaho Statesman.
Hannah Corona/ Beth Beckmon
July 19, 2021
All future class reunions will never be the same without Rob!
July 19, 2019
Your absence is a daily reminder to my Kelli. Know you are missed by many. God bless you dear Rob. with love, Gloria Stone
Pam DeTray
August 1, 2018
So very grateful my son had this wonderful man as a friend. Truly an original, one of a kind. The world misses you already, Rob!
Hannah "Beth" "Beckmon" Corona
July 28, 2018
Although Rob and I didn't stay in touch after high school graduation, I have very fond memories of Rob in high school. He always made me laugh and was a very genuine person that didn't follow along with all the clique groups of teens. He didn't care who you were and he spoke to everyone and treated them as a friend even if they were alone and shy. I will continue to remember him as that person who even signed my yearbook when very few others would.
Rachel Holtgard
July 26, 2018
Ceramica will not be the same without your weekly presence and amazing talent. As I got to know you, it quickly became evident what a gentle, empathetic soul you have - and still have - and how much we had in common given our shared age and close birthdays. Much love and healing white light to your family and friends who must find a way to move forward without your loving presence. Rest in peace, my friend.
Stephanie
July 26, 2018
I am so sorry to hear about the loss of your loved one.
May the God of all comfort who comforts us in all our trials bring peace to you during this difficult time.
Chris
July 25, 2018
Hadn't seen you much in the last 20 years or so but I always really liked you. I'm sorry the world will be without you now. A real loss
July 25, 2018
Dearest Rick, Linda and Wendy,
There are no words, I am heartbroken!
Sandee
Warren
July 25, 2018
Rob I didn't really know you, I was friends with Chris. But you sounded like a wonderful man and I'm glad Chris had someone like you in his life.
My heart goes out to both families and to the pups as well.
If anyone can message me about arrangements, please do so
Brett Baeza
July 25, 2018
I had the pleasure of meeting Rob while we both worked at Kinko's and he was such an amazing person, his ability to help people create what they were looking for made him the star of the DTP group, and rightly so. I loved going to Rob's house and watching movies with him and his Room mates. I'm sorry Rob I miss you already. To quote from one of Rob's fav movies:
"I've seen things you people wouldn't believe: attack ships on fire off the shoulder of Orion. I've watched C-beams glitter in the dark near the Tannhäuser Gate. All those... moments... will be lost... in time, like... tears... in rain"
Roy Batty - Blade Runner
I already miss you Rob, I hope that this get's better......
Sjaan Z. Trowbridge
July 25, 2018
I feel so fortunate to have had contact with Rob in recent years. It's funny how our perspectives of each other are so different in high school and to become reacquainted in our adult lives really is special, especially with someone as extraordinary as Rob. There are no words that could possibly ease your heartache so I am wrapping you all up in a huge embrace full of love and light, in the hopes that your memories of Rob burn deep. May you reflect and find loving peace. I will continue to keep you all close in thought.
Tony and Nikki
July 24, 2018
Our most heartfelt sympathies to all who knew and love Rob. May his kindness, generosity, and gregarious nature be remembered -- and celebrated through action in kind.
Monica
July 24, 2018
My sincere condolences. When someone you love becomes a memory, they become a treasure in your heart forever. May your treasured memories fill your heart with love & bring you peace. May the words of 1 Thessalonians 4:14 give you comfort and hope.
Becky Steinocker
July 24, 2018
Rob---gone way too soon my friend--but always to be remembered--I'll see u on the other side of the stars
Rob Bartholomew
July 24, 2018
Rob was the most talented and creative person I know. I was blessed having grown up with Rob and he influenced me in countless ways. We worked together on the yearbook in high school and count myself truly fortunate to get to see the best graphic artist of all time in action. I looked up to him as an artist and enjoyed sharing our passions of photography and music. I honestly can't say enough about how talented Rob was but I can say for certain that there is a part of him in every picture I take.
July 23, 2018
I met Rob about 21 years ago, as he was my designer at Kinkos for our LipsInc! show ad artwork. He is the ONLY person to ever create our posters, etc. in our 21 years. He grew to be a friend too. He was sooo creative, kind and would get excited like a kid to hear my reaction to his latest creation for us. He is so missed by so many and I will remember him always. Unfortunately, we will be on a trip to Michigan for his celebration (so disappointed), but I know it is going to be a packed house!
Much love & light,
~Doug/Martini
Brenda Cheney
July 23, 2018
Our condolences go out to all your family for this tragic accident that took the life of Rob and his friend Chris. We are all still in shock as well... Linda, Wendy,and your husband and family. We Love You, and we are here to support you in any way we can. If you should need any help with anything please get ahold of us. We can feel your pain. And we know from experience, that there are no words that are going to take any of this pain away. We understand, our hearts go out to you. We nerver know what Gods Plan is for us on this earth. But if I could offer a bit of advice... Let the tears flow, as in those tears is healing. Over time it helps to lift the pain. You will never get over your loss, but over time you will be able to learn to live life with your loss. Its when a certain memories hit you..the tears will come, but its ok. God is so...good. allow Him to carry you thru all this pain and suffering. Remb.there is two sets of foot prints in the sand. Reach out your hands to Him and allow him to carry you thru all your pain and Suffering. As time goes on, your pain will lesson. You will have many Happy memories, and moments from over the years, and when certain memories hit you and you may or may not cry. As for me ,Im an emotional cryier. Linda if I coukd say anything to you, I know from loosing 3 babies, and a child myself, it is one of hardest things a Mother will have to face in life. If you ever need a listening ear, I'm here for you. So please don't ever hesitate to call me. If I can take you all back in time for a moment. I will never forget the bond that My bro. Jim and Rob had.They had a way that they really understood each others lives with no judgement. I always remb. Jim talking about his and Robs late night talks they use to have late into the night. It was Awesome! I just want you all to know that I always loved and appreciated Rob for who he was. To me he was like a gental giant, with a kind and loving heart, an old soul,and he never knew a stranger.He just had a way about him, that he was such a pleasure to be around. He was one of Gods choosen, and I truly feel he was placed here on this earth to teach us or anyone he came in contact with. That is one of many of Robs characteristics that I loved. He will truly be missed by all. May God Bless you all in A Special way. Love to all.. God Bless. ~ Brenda & Doug Cheney.. & Jerry & Connie Kepler Sorry to have to relay this mesg. to u this way, but all of my contact info. Was not updated. Please get ahold of Jina on FB, so we can update all our info. Thank you.
Aodhàn Crawford
July 23, 2018
Still in shock that I wont see you at Ceramica or at comic con anymore. So touched by the laughs we always had and the joy you always brought. Your art was as incredible as your Spirit, we have lost the brightest star that was always the first to appear and the last to quit.
July 23, 2018
Rob was a dear friend of my daughter Kelli's (Stone)...She met him at Kinko's when they worked together, became roommates and have remained close for many years. Although Kelli lives in Belgium and was devastated to hear of this awful tragedy we must remember what a super friend he was to her and I as well. My prayers to his loved ones in this time of pain. God Bless you all Gloria (Stone)
Leslie Emerson
July 23, 2018
I knew Rob from Knko's before I knew he was my Sister-In-Law Wendy's brother. What a shining LIGHT. Rob could affirm your worth, make your day, and put a smile on your face in the time it took to total your receipt. Every time I have thought of him during these last few days my heart opens wider. Bless all who loved Rob with ease and peace in the days ahead, knowing what a gift of presence he was and still continues to be for all that knew him.
Sherry Fisher
July 23, 2018
Rob was one of the greatest most caring people I knew. I met him through Chris. They both took me in after I lost my uncle and almost myself. If it wasn't for them, I wouldn't be here today. They are greatly missed.
Michael Nielsen
July 23, 2018
Sometimes life is so unfair.
But you two will make heaven a magnificent place to be. May you rest in peace.
Becky Skinner
July 23, 2018
For all who loved you.. and those that will miss you.. my your memories of times shared comfort you in this time of great sorrow.
July 22, 2018
Our condolences to the family. May God fulfill his promise of binding up the brokenhearted. Isa 61:1
July 22, 2018
You are not alone during this time of sorrow and pain. May God give your family strength and comfort to help you endure this loss. As you remember your beloved one, may the God of peace give you comfort and peace in every way. May you find Strength from the love and care that surrounds you and comfort in the memories that you shared. Theres hope in seeing your dear loved again. Read 1 Thessalonians 4:14.
Please accept my sincere condolences.
July 22, 2018
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
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