TICONDEROGA — Francis William Barnes, 88, died peacefully at his home in Ticonderoga on July 22, 2012. He will be greatly missed. He was born in Vergennes, Vt., on July 8, 1924, the son of William and Beatrice (Martin) Barnes of Port Henry.
He was a proud veteran of the U.S. Navy, having served 32 years as an electrician and achieving the rank of Chief Petty Officer. During World War II, he served in the U.S.S Santa Fe, a cruiser which was involved in some of the heaviest fighting of the conflict. He was decorated with 13 battle stars. After his military service, he was actively involved in the American Legion and Knights of Columbus, and was a life member of the Disabled American Veterans, the Fleet Reserve Association, the Retired Enlisted Association, the American Military Society and the National Association for Uniformed Services.
An avid sportsman, he enjoyed hunting and fishing in his retirement.
Francis was predeceased by his wife of 60 years, Georgianna E. (Fleury) Barnes; his daughter, Margaret Barnes; his son-in-law, Peter Anderson; his parents, four brothers and three sisters.
He is survived by his sister, Shirley Anderson; oldest daughter, Tamara Anderson and her children Stephen Woods, Jennifer Holman, Larry Rabideau Jr. and his partner Kishia Patnaude; son, Raymond Barnes Sr. and his wife Cheryle and their children LCDR Raymond Barnes Jr. USN and wife Angel, Christopher Barnes and fianc^ Tearny Uy; and his youngest daughter, Holly Barnes and partner Robert Gonyo and their children Francis W.R. Barnes, Chandler Barnes and Reachel Barnes; great-grandchildren, Tyler Woods, Daytona Holman, Wyatt Barnes, Carli and Presley A. Barnes; and numerous cousins, nieces, nephews, extended family and friends also remain to carry the memories.
There will be a Catholic Mass at 10 a.m. Aug. 8, at St. Mary's Church in Ticonderoga and a graveside military service to follow at St. Patrick's Cemetery in Moriah.
In lieu of flowers, the family invites donations in Mr. Barnes memory to be given to the local Ticonderoga V.F.W. Post.
