Robert E. Barnes

Robert E. Barnes passed away peacefully with family by his side on Wednesday, January 7, 2026, at 97 years old.

Robert was born on September 22, 1928 to his loving parents, Priscilla and George Barnes. He is the beloved brother of George Barnes and his wife Elisa of Everett, MA; Gertrude and her husband Louis DiStabatino of Saugus, MA.

Robert grew up in Everett, MA and was a graduate of Everett High School. He served in the Army during the Korean War. After returning, he worked for 35 years for The New England Telephone Company as a foreman. He fell in love with Marjorie Struthers while attending a Red Cross Blood Drive. Marjorie also worked at the telephone company.

Robert married Marjorie of Arlington, MA on April 1, 1956. They were happily married for 60 years, and were the loving parents of six children: Theresa and husband Richard Carson; Robert E. Barnes, Jr. and wife Marla Collins; Dennis G. Barnes, Sr.; Lawrence F. and wife Kathleen Barnes, David A. and wife Ann Barnes; Kathleen Medugno and partner Debra Brooks. They were the loving grandparents of grandchildren: Leah, Richard, Charlene, Jennifer, Dennis Jr., Kaitlin, Larry, Megan, John, Allison, Marguerite, and Christiaan, and had several great grandchildren, nieces, and nephews. Robert and Marjorie raised their children in Arlington, MA, and moved to Lawrence, MA, while they built their dream home in East Wakefield, NH, making numerous close friendships. They resided in East Wakefield for 35 years.

Robert was an avid volunteer with several organizations in East Wakefield, NH.

Robert loved history, traveling, fishing, and spending time with his wife and family. He loved reminiscing over Saturday morning coffee with his nephew, George Barnes, eating blueberry pie with Charlene, going fishing, sitting at Rye Beach eating "sand"wiches, working in his woodshop, and telling stories about good times past.

For many years, Robert took his children camping because they loved it. His children thought he also loved camping. It only recently came to light that he never liked camping because it reminded him of the two years he spent living in a tent while serving in the Korean War. And yet, he never missed a camping trip with his children.

Robert spent his later years at AVIVA in Woburn, MA, where he befriended many of the staff and other residents. Even though he was only at AVIVA for a few years, the friendships he made there were precious to him.

Please consider making a donation to these organizations on his behalf.

New England Center and Home for Veterans

https://donate.stripe.com/eVa2bR3av48fdHOdQQ

Future In Sight (formerly the NH Association for the Blind)

https://nhfv.org/donate/