BROOKFIELD-Robert E. Barnes, Sr., 81, of Brookfield, formerly of Spencer passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family on Thursday, October 19 in UMASS Medical Center.
He was predeceased by his son, Robert E. Barnes, Jr. in 2003. He leaves two daughters, Judith Whitman of Southbridge and Wendy Saintsing and her husband, David of Southbridge; three grandchildren, Christopher Ayoub and Shawn and Kyle Saintsing; a brother, Russell Barnes and his wife, Helen of Spencer; three sisters, Barbara Hanson of North Grosvenordale, CT; Joan Peters of Millbury and Carol Fortin-Duhart of Auburn; his former wife, Patricia E. (Sanderson) Barnes of Florida and nieces and nephews. Bob was also predeceased by his longtime partner, Shirley LaPrade. He was born in Worcester, son of Wilfred E. and Josephine E. (Graves) Barnes and lived in Spencer for 42 years, before moving to Brookfield in 2006.
Bob was a Master Die Cast Inspector for 35 years for the Wyman Gordon Company, retiring in 1989. In his earlier years, Bob enjoyed going out dancing, bowling in the Wyman Gordon's league. He coached little league and minor league baseball in Spencer for many years. Bob also had the privilege to coach the Spencer Little League All Star Team for a couple of years. Bob enjoyed the Lake Lashaway pitch league for many years. He loved tinkering with cars and small engines. He was also good at building and small construction projects.
A Funeral Service will be held Tuesday, October 24 at 10:00AM in CALLAHAN~FAY~CASWELL Funeral Home, 61 Myrtle St., Worcester. Burial will follow in Saint John's Cemetery, Worcester. Visiting Hours are Monday, October 23 from 5:00 to 7:00PM at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Center of Hope Foundation, 100 Foster St., Southbridge, 01550.