Cyril Wilbur Barnes
September 30, 2012
Cyril Barnes, 89, died in an auto accident on Saturday, September 29, 2012. Services will be held at First Federated Church, 4801 Franklin Ave. in Des Moines, on Thursday, October 4, 2012 at 11:00 a.m. Family will greet friends following the service.
Cyril was born on June 20, 1923 to Esther and Charles Barnes in Spring Valley, WI. He graduated from the University of Iowa with his doctorate degree and worked as the superintendent for North Polk and Des Moines Christian Schools. After retirement, Cyril worked as a substitute teacher and was known as “Grandpa Barnes”. He enjoyed lunching with his First Federated buddies and adopting all of his many “grandchildren”. Earlier in his life, he was an avid fisherman and took many trips to Canada with his sons and other family members. Cyril also enjoyed traveling with Mildred, reading and spending time with his family.
He will be greatly missed by his wife of 69 years, Mildred Pauline Barnes; children, Kathlyn (Brian) Scott, Karla (Tom) Willoughby, Thomas (Charlotte) Barnes, Cynthia “Millie” (Linda Carter) Bagby; 16 grandchildren; 20 great-grandchildren; sister, Janet Wendt; and brother, Duane (Virginia) Barnes. Cyril was preceded in death by his parents; and his sons, Robert Christian Barnes and Paul Cyril Barnes,
Memorial contributions may be directed to First Federated Church or Des Moines Christian School. Condolences may be expressed at: www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.
Erma Kibby
10/12/2012
Mil, I was shocked to see the obituary for Cy. I just got home from California & was catching up on the news. Know that my thoughts and prayers are with you through this difficult time. Much love and many fond memories. Erma
Sherry Emdia
10/06/2012
I was saddened to hear of Cyril's passing. He was always so full of life and very hard working. I remember Cyril from the days that he and Mildred managed the condo association I live in. He was a respected educator and a true Christian man. My heart goes out to Mildred and his family for their loss. He will truly be missed by all. Sincerely Sherry Emdia
Margie Schima
10/05/2012
I was so sorry to hear of Cy's passing. He was a wonderful human being. My thoughts and prayers are with his whole family. My special prayers are for Mildred. I know you will really miss your life partner.
Wendell & Christina Mitchell
10/04/2012
Cy was an enduring testimony of living a consistent life of faith in our Lord, even to the point that just two weeks ago we had seen him with you, Mildred, walking from the worship service to ABF time. He and you were and are truly an example for living the Christian life.
Cathi Stokesbary, Lori Lydon
10/04/2012
Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. Millie, we havent been in touch for awhile, but you are always in our hearts, and we only want the best for you and your family. Your dad never met a stranger, he always had a smile, and he passed that on to you. Take care!
Michelle McCarthy
10/04/2012
Mr Barnes was the best sub teacher a student could ever have. I will never forget walking into the classroom or walking through the halls and seeing his smile! Thank you Mr Barnes you will be missed. RIP
Linda and Denny Anderson
10/04/2012
You were always so kind to our mother (Virginia). Our prayers are with the family. Heaven just received another angel.....
James Moulton
10/04/2012
Mr. Barnes was a great, fun sub to have never an unkind word and his smile and fun spirit filled any class. After high school I'd run into him now and then and he always had kind words. RIP Mr. Barns you'll be missed....
Julie (Battani) Hall
10/04/2012
My heart is heavy over the passing of Mr. Barnes. He was a kind, gentle man, with a heart of gold. He was my favorite substitute teacher at AHS and will truly be missed by so many. Thoughts and prayers are will his family and friends. Rest in peace. Those in heaven have been given an angel.
Traci Webb
10/04/2012
Mr. Barnes was a breath of fresh air and a warm, comforting smile to all students who knew him. As an adult now, I even enjoyed seeing him as a Walmart greeter. He truly will be missed and was loved by many.
Thank you for sharing him with us all.
Cheri Saner
10/04/2012
Mr. Barnes was a kind and gentle soul. I can't help but smile when I think about him. He had such a zest for life and I could feel the love he had to share. He had a huge heart of gold. I am blessed to have spent time with him and to know him. He will be missed by so many.
Chad Kovac
10/04/2012
I always smiled when I saw we had Mr. Barnes as a substitute. The man was kind, gentle and funny. Everyone who knew him loved him.. How could you not? He was full of kindness and joy.
kenny and jewel wohlfarth
10/04/2012
prayers to the family and all the people who knew and loved cyril. he will be missed.
Don & Velma Reese - Sheldahl
10/03/2012
Our prayers are for all of Cyril's family that you will be comforted by the many lives he touched when he did what he loved--to teach. We have good memories of your time at North Polk.
laurie (james) lenz
10/03/2012
You will be deeply missed by a lot of students in Ankeny! You were the best sub ever! Deepest sympathy to your family.