FRANKLIN—Lester C. Barnes Jr. 70 of Franklin, died Friday February 11, 2011 at Milford Regional Medical Center following a illness. He was the beloved husband of Madaline A. (LaPorte) Barnes.
Born July 3, 1940 in Providence, RI a son of the late Lester C. Barnes Sr. & Edythe M. (Stockley) Barnes, he had been a resident of Franklin since 1965.
Mr. Barnes was raised and educated in the Mapleville section of Rhode Island, and was a retired technician who worked for AT&T for over 37 years.
He honorably served in the United States Air Force; he attained the rank of A1C and was a radar & radio repairman. He was awarded the Good Conduct Medal and was honorably discharged in April 1962.
An avid reader, he could be found at the Franklin Public Library and he also enjoyed traveling. He treasured time spent with his family, especially his grandchildren.
He had participated in scouting, and became an Eagle Scout he also attained the Bronze Palm one of the highest awards given in scouting. He was a member of the Lodge of Masons in Rhode Island and for many years was the web-master for the town of Franklin.
In addition to his wife of 45 years he is survived by a daughter, Samantha L. Florest and her husband Steven of Bellingham, a brother Howard Barnes of Florida, a sister in law Patricia Barnes of North Providence, 2 nieces Cheryl Barnes of Wakefield, RI, and Janice McCarthy of Rehoboth & a grand nephew Jeffrey Barnes of Wakefield, RI.
Also surviving are his cherished grandchildren; Ava & Cole Florest.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend his funeral service on Wednesday February 16th, at 11AM in the Charles F. Oteri & Son Franklin Funeral Home 33 Cottage St. Franklin, www.oterifuneralhome.com.
Burial will follow at the Massachusetts National Cemetery in Bourne.
Friends may call at the funeral home from 10-11am prior to the service.
In lieu of flowers donation in his memory sent to the Franklin Public Library Attn. Gift Fund, 118 Main St. Franklin, MA 02038, would be appreciated.