John F. Barnes

John Franklin Barnes passed away on July 13, 2025, at the age of 78. John was born in Burlington, Vermont on July 19, 1946, to his parents Converse and Mary (Riggs) Barnes. He graduated from Suffolk University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration. John then served in the army during the Vietnam War from 1969-1970, as a Personnel Specialist assigned to the Adjutant General’s Corp. He went on to finish his military commitments at West Point Academy, and then earn his MBA from Indiana University. During his career, John worked for over 30 years as an accountant with the Department of Defense, during which he was also stationed in Japan and South Korea.

John is survived by his loving wife of 41 years, Hye Joon (Yoon) Barnes; his children: Aaron Barnes (Holly), Anthony Barnes (Mai), and Darlene Metzger (Charlie); his grandchildren: Isabelle, Adelynn, Linda, Henry, Chaz, and Sylvia; his sister, Rose Farkas (Betty June); and many other extended family members and beloved friends.

John was preceded in death by his parents, Converse and Mary; sister, Jane Green; and son, Shawn Barnes, all of whom he is rejoicing with in Heaven!

John’s favorite pastimes included watching and discussing the New York Yankees and IU basketball, reading true crime novels and watching historical documentaries, impressively rattling off dates and calculations in his head, spending time with his beloved family (especially his grandchildren), going to the casino with his wife, and traveling the world (including driving across the country). He had a soft spot for cats and connecting with strangers, especially when they needed help.

Private services will be held with military honors at Crown Hill Cemetery, at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations are requested to be made to The American Heart Association, or the charity of your choice.