Barney graduated from West High School, Denver in 1955, where he joined the ROTC. In his senior year he was selected as battalion commander with a rank of cadet LT. colonel. He enlisted in the Navy reserves in September of 1954. Barney went on to college at Colorado State University where he received a Bachelor's of Science in Horticulture. Upon graduation he applied for Aviation Candidate School and was commissioned in Providence RI. He went on to Pensacola Fl. for flight training where he served in the Navy until 1961.
In 1954 Barney met the love of his life Janet Marchese and were married in 1959 in Denver, CO.
Barney's career in horticulture began in Colorado as a greenhouse manager in 1960. In December of 1962 they left for Calgary, Alberta where he was also a greenhouse manager. In 1968 they moved to Delray Beach, FL to manage a mum farm. In 1970 they moved to Akron, OH to become a horticulture salesman. Two years later he continued his sales journey in Okemos, MI where they resided for 19 years.
In Michigan he developed a love for Michigan State University and attended Spartan tailgates, football games, and hockey games with close friends. In
Okemos, Barney and Janet were very involved in the Okemos Chieftain Athletic Boosters.
In 1988 he took a job opportunity in Arizona to manage a bare root rose operation. In June of 1991 Barney and Janet bought the business and moved to Litchfield Park, AZ.
Barney was a sacristan at St. Thomas Aquinas Church for 12 years. He was a Knights of Columbus Charter Member, where he served as a Grand Knight for 2 years. He was asked to form a 4th Degree Assembly of Knights in the West Valley. He was also an active Rotarian member for many years.
Barney is survived by his wife Janet of 62 years. His children Barney Michael, Annette Rose Flegal (David). His 3 grandchildren whom he adored and was so proud of Amanda Rose Flegal, Michael John Flegal (Fiancé Elizabeth), and Brandon Brown (Ashley). Additionally, he is survived by his brother in-law Jerry Marchese (Rose) and five nieces and nephews, and 6 great nieces and nephews.
He was proceeded in death by his parents Barney L. and Julia C. and his brother in-law Joseph Marchese.
Visitation will take place from 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm with a recitation of the Holy Rosary will be held at 7PM on February 10 at Thompson Funeral Chapel. A funeral mass will be held at 10AM on February 11 at St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church.
Donations can be made to the Knights of Columbus Council 11675 in his name.
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