John Wayne Barnes, 73, left this earth on August 3, 2017 at 3:08pm at Dukes Memorial Hospital in Peru, Indiana.
He came into this world on January 31, 1944 in Gaston County, North Carolina. He took his wife Marilyn Struble on November 1, 1968. They had six children: Dale Beitler, Rexine Connolly, Lori Gonsalves, Michele McConahay, Felicia Barnes, and Chris Barnes.
John joined the U.S. Air Force and served our country in the Vietnam War. He was stationed at Grissom Air Force Base. This is when he met and married Marilyn, his wife of 49 years. He worked at Square D for a little while, then started his own business, John’s TV & Electronics. His first location was on West Warren Street, and his second location was downtown, just two doors down from where First Farmers Bank is currently. His last location was on East Sixth Street, near Gabriel’s restaurant.
He is survived by his wife, Marilyn, and his six children, as well as his grandchildren: Justin Beitler, Melissa Holden, Lindsey Granson, Jordan Holden, Kelsey Clay, Jennifer Webb, Rachel Gonsalves, TJ Gonsalves, Cameron Gonsalves, Danielle Nice, Krista Ranalli, Keyia Russell, Dakota Barnes, Tristan Barnes, Cherokee Barnes, Sierra Barnes; and 21 great-grandchildren. Also, one sister, Dorcas.
He was preceded in death by his parents, James and Ethel Barnes, two sisters Rosemary and Faye, and two brothers Ray and Bill.
A memorial service will be held at Chapel of Praise, 2430 US Business 31, Peru, Indiana on Thursday, August 10, 2017 at 2pm, with Pastor Marie Thompson officiating. Friends may call from 1pm until time of service at the church. Memorials may be made to the family for the grandchildren’s trust fund.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Flowers-Leedy Funeral Home. Family and friends may sign the online guestbook at www.FlowersLeedyAllen.com.