Thomas Vincent Barnes

Thomas Vincent Barnes

May 10, 1951 – July 30, 2017

Thomas Vincent Barnes, 66, of Albany was called Home on July 30, 2017. He passed away in his home surrounded by family after a courageous battle with cancer.

Tom was born on May 10, 1951 to Irene and Vincent Barnes. He grew up in Minneapolis, Minnesota and at age 17, enlisted in the United States Army. He served as a supply specialist from 1969-1973.

Tom accomplished many things in his lifetime. After serving his country, he moved to Oregon in the mid 70’s, and earned an Associate of Arts Degree in Visual Communications and Printing Technology from Linn-Benton Community College in 1978. After graduation, he worked as Production Supervisor and Photographer for The New Era Publishing Company in Sweet Home.

Tom took the most pride in his 31 years as a federal employee at the Albany Research Center. He served as an Offset Duplicator Operator, Visual Communications Specialist, and Property and Supply Management Specialist while working tirelessly as a union representative and also served as Union President.

In 1995, he married his loving wife, Cherrie and together they raised 3 beautiful daughters. Tom was a long-time member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church, an avid reader, enjoyed photography and working on old cars. He loved attending swap meets, tinkering in his shop, preparing meals for St. Mary’s youth retreats and hosting game nights for family and friends. He most enjoyed playing with his 5 grandchildren. Above all else, his faith and his family were everything to him. We will remember Tom for his selflessness and willingness to help others, how welcoming and forgiving he was, and that he loved wholeheartedly. We will miss him terribly but send him off knowing that he really made a difference in the lives of so many.

Tom was preceded in death by his parents, his sister Kathy Karnowski, brother Paul Barnes, sister-in-law Barb Barnes, and nephew Tony Barnes.

Tom is survived by his wife of 22 years, Cherrie Barnes; his daughters and sons-in-law: Julia Barnes, Amber and Scott Knight, Brittany and John Bauer; his grandchildren Brionna Pool and Bryce, Brayden, Lilly and Shane Bauer; his brothers and sisters-in-law: John and Mary Barnes (MN), Mike and Sylvia Barnes (NM), Chuck and Dee Barnes (AZ); his brother-in-law Frank E. and Mary Whiffen II (FL) and several nieces and nephews. Tom also leaves behind many friends whom he deeply loved. The family would like to thank everyone for their continued prayers, love and support.

A viewing will take place from 5:00-7:00 pm on August 8 at AAsum-Dufour Funeral Home followed by the recitation of the rosary at 7:00 pm. The funeral Mass will be at 11:00 am on August 9 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Albany with a reception to follow. The graveside service with military honors will be at 1:30 pm on August 10 at Willamette National Cemetery in Portland.

 In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Mary’s Soup Kitchen.