Daniel James Barnes

Daniel James Barnes, age 64 of Warren, died Friday, October 4, 2019 at Ascension Macomb-Oakland Hospital’s Warren Campus. He was born October 6, 1954 in Mt. Clemens, Michigan, son of the late Richard and the late Maryann (nee: Paling) Barnes.

We remember Daniel with esteemed respect for the risks her took each and every day in his career as a truck driver. Just one of the countless many who make our country hum and thrive as they navigate the roads and manage the myriad of drivers that impact their day, Dan was a consummate professional behind the wheel of his tractor-trailer and loved having a job with nothing but the radio filling his ears.

Along with the Big Rigs he drove, Daniel had an affinity for the many of the smaller trucks out there as well,…especially his babies, a ’92 Chevy and his ’09 Dodge. Tinkering on and tooling around in his coveted pick-ups quickened the American spirit that purged through his veins and made the ride down the road something special. Yet even more than the passion he held for his trucks, Daniel was a HUGE Harley Dude and took great pride in the 2 bikes he owned & treasured throughout the years,…not to mention the incredible rides they provided as well. When you think about the American spirit, little makes as big an impact as Harley-Davidson,…and nobody knew that better than Dan.

Another source of joy for Dan was exchanging the concrete jungle for a taste of outdoor fun, and that was often achieved through his love of camping. Michigan offers a plethora of wonderful facilities for campers, but one of Dan’s favorites was the Evergreen Campground in Cass City. Nestled a bit north in the Mitten’s thumb, it was Dan’s “home away from home” and helped him achieve a pleasant balance in life by reminding him of the beauty that exists beyond the fumes. Pair that with a great campfire surrounded by friends and loved ones, and Dan was in seventh heaven. Of course, the cherry on the sundae was definitely topping it off with a cold beer and a hit or two of those “funny cigarettes.” Some guys may be found pulling weeds,…Dan was more about rolling them, jus’ sayin’.

Also renowned for his collector’s status, Dan accrued a number of different and interesting pieces that included street signs, license plates, and, of course, a vast array of Harley collectibles. For those who were lucky enough to partake of his assortment of treasures, they’ll be able to attest to what a unique and intriguing Museum of Memorabilia he had amassed.

But his favorite collection of all was found in the hearts and lives of those in whom he was blessed to share his journey. For Dan, life was one big campfire, full of stories and laughter to fill the soul,…and fill the soul he did. He lived large, laughed often, and rode strong. He’ll be lovingly remembered and missed immensely.   

Daniel was the beloved husband of the late Cheryl. Dear father of Carl (Julie) Barnes, Daniel Barnes Jr., Heather (Eric) Pierce, Rebecca Barnes, and Chelsea Robinson.  Loving Papa of Kaleigh Rogers. Brother of Juliann (David) Arnold.

A Memorial Visitation for Daniel will be held on Tuesday, October 8th from 6-9 pm at the D.S. Temrowski & Sons Funeral Home, 30009 Hoover Road at Common (12 ½ Mile Rd.) in Warren.

Please share memories of Daniel at his guest book below.