Carl H. Barnes

Carl H. Barnes (“Barney”), 88, was born February 9, 1937, and completed his journey on September 18, 2025. A lifelong resident of Pepin, Wisconsin, Carl proudly served his country in the Marine Corps (1956-1958) and in the Air Force (1959-1963). His service included time stationed in Okinawa, Japan, and roles stateside as a rifle range coach and aviation mechanic.After his military career, Carl returned home to farm and later worked in trucking. He especially enjoyed seeing the country, taking in new places, and connecting with people along the way.He was married to Janice Mason for 28 years and later shared his life with June Roettger for over 20 years. In retirement, he was remembered for his humor and easygoing spirit. He had a gift for lifting others up, bringing positivity and levity into even ordinary moments. Beneath his lightheartedness was a deeply caring nature—he often “adopted” people as projects, making it a point to check in on those who needed companionship, support, or simply a friend. He was preceded in death by his parents, Dale and Pearl, and brothers Vernon and Dean. He is survived by his brother Lee (Heflin, LA); daughter Ursa (Robert) Abernathy (Merrill, WI); three grandchildren, Alexandra (Ringle, WI), Meryl (Wausau, WI), and Kaitlyn (Merrill, WI) Swensen; one great-grandson, Atticus Szak-acs; three nieces; his special friend, Lorraine Heitmann; and many friends.A celebration of his life will be held at the Pepin Lions Club on Saturday, October 18 from 1pm-4pm. Rather than flowers or donations, the family invites friends to honor Carl by reaching out to someone in need with companionship, support or a friendly check-in – spreading the same warmth and levity he shared with so many and keep-ing his spirit of positivity alive.