PAUL FREDRICK BARNES
Saline
Paul Fredrick Barnes, 65, of Saline died May 7, 2008, at the Bronson Hospital in Kalamazoo. His death resulted from severe injuries sustained three days prior when he was involved in a tragic accident in Albion.
Mr. Barnes was born Sept. 7, 1942, in Artesia, Calif., the son of Frank and Catherine (Warren) Barnes and had family ties to both Michigan and California. He enlisted in the U.S. Naval Reserves as a senior at Glendora High School and became active in the Seabee Division of the U.S. Navy after graduation.
He had been employed by the Ann Arbor Fire Department for more than 25 years until his retirement. Mr. Barnes also spent more than 30 years farming properties on Mooreville Road and Weber Road in Saline.
Mr. Barnes was never short of ideas when it came to growing his crops or expanding his businesses. Barnes Pickle Farm soon became Barnes Farm Market, which eventually led to a greenhouse and sweet corn business. At the peak of his career, he was as famous for his blueberry doughnuts as he was for his unconventional farming.
In recent years, Mr. Barnes had developed much of his 40-acre farm into two subdivisions and oversaw the construction of several homes.
Survivors include one son, Michael (Amy) Barnes of Swartz Creek, and one grandson, Colby Barnes, also of Swartz Creek, daughters Michele Barnes of Thailand and Tamara Barnes of Philadelphia, Pa., cherished friend Candace Boehlke of Albion, and faithful companion "Sis."
He is also survived by one brother, Peter Barnes; a nephew, Scott Barnes of Tecumseh; and his former wife, Julie Barnes of Ann Arbor.
A funeral was held Monday at the First United Methodist Church in Saline. The Rev. Dwayne Bagley officiated. Burial was at Oakwood Cemetery in Saline. A reception followed the graveside services at Saline American Legion Post 322.
Mr. Barnes was a member of the Gift of Life, Michigan Organ and Tissue Donation Program in which he participated upon his death.
Memorial contributions may be made to the charity of one's choice. Envelopes are available at First United Methodist Church of Saline.
Arrangements were by the Robison-Bahnmiller Funeral Home in Saline.
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