Leon "Skip" Ray Barnwell

Leon Ray Barnwell, lovingly known as “Skip,” passed away on Sunday, May 25, 2025, in Mesa, Arizona, surrounded by family. Born on April 3, 1939, in La Grande, Oregon, Skip’s nickname was earned at birth when a single black curly chest hair reminded his family of a water skipper — a symbol of his unique charm and enduring spirit.

Skip spent most of his life in Portland and later Eugene, Oregon, before retiring to Mesa. From a young age, he developed a deep love for baseball, particularly the Philadelphia Phillies. Starting in grade school, he’d listen to their games on a transistor radio and memorize players' stats from the box scores. His devotion to the team never wavered.

In high school, Skip reportedly earned just two A’s—one in chemistry and the other in baseball—a testament to both his academic honesty and his athletic passion. It was also during these years that he discovered a lifelong love for photography. His lens captured countless sunrises, sunsets, seascapes, and landscapes, with a special affection for macro photography of plants.

Skip graduated from Oregon State University, proudly flying the Beavers’ flag even while living in Eugene, deep in rival Duck territory. He later earned his degree from the Oregon Health & Science University School of Dentistry.

In 1963, Skip married Jeaninne Donoho, and together they had four children: Chris, Kevin, Jamee, and Jennie. After serving in the military, he established a successful dental practice in Eugene, where he worked for 35 years. In 1981, he married Karen Olsen, bringing her children Scott and Konni into his family. Karen remained his loving companion through retirement and his final chapter in Arizona.

Known affectionately by his grandchildren as “Funny Grandpa,” Skip had a playful spirit and a signature wrestling move — the “handcuffs of death.” He was a dedicated presence in the lives of his family, attending sporting events, concerts, and every occasion that brought his loved ones together.

Skip also had a profound interest in genealogy, a passion he and Karen shared, including their 2 year mission in the Family History Center in Arizona. His legacy is one of devotion — to family, faith, sports, and the details that make life rich and meaningful.

He is survived by his wife, Karen, children, 26 grandchildren, and 35 great-grandchildren, each of whom carry forward his love and laughter.

Skip Barnwell’s life was a beautiful blend of loyalty, curiosity, humor, and heart. He will be dearly missed and forever remembered.

The celebration of life service for Leon Ray Barnwell will be held Saturday, June 28 from 10 to 11 AM at Sunland Springs Village (11214 E Laguna Azul Circle in the Superstition Room Bldg #2 Mesa, AZ 85209).

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