Howard Eugene Barnes

Howard Eugene Barnes, a longtime resident of Longmont, Colorado, passed away December 15, 2008 at Columbine West in Fort Collins. He was 78 years old.Howard was born April 15, 1930 in Crane, Missouri, to Oscar and Neva Mae (Garrison) Barnes. The family moved to California where he graduated from Gridley High School in 1948. After graduation, Howard enlisted in the United States Navy, serving as an aircraft mechanic during the Korean War.On April 4, 1953, Howard married Betty Tipton in San Diego. The couple moved to the Denver area before settling in Longmont in 1964. Mr. Barnes worked for many years as a deliveryman for Watts Hardy Dairy, serving families and businesses on the Northern Front Range for many years.A dedicated family man, Howard enjoyed playing sports with his sons, and watching their events. He was a gifted storyteller, talented bowler, and loved to visit with family and friends.In 1996, Howard and Betty moved to Bullhead City, Arizona where they enjoyed retirement until Betty's death in 2004. Howard returned to Colorado in 2007.Those who remain to celebrate his memory include his four children, Ellen Watson of Loveland, Larry Barnes and wife, Neva, of Loveland, Brian Barnes of Longmont, and Donna Hummel and husband, Gordon, of Loveland; eight grandchildren; and five great grandchildren. He is further survived by a brother, Wayne Barnes of Great Falls, Montana; and two sisters, Lela Harris and her husband, John of Grants Pass, Oregon, and Louise Sparling of Napa, California.He was preceded in death by his wife, his parents, a granddaughter, Haley Watson, and three brothers, Jay, Harold and Dennis Barnes.Visitation will be held from 5-7 p.m. on Thursday, December 18, 2008 at Howe Mortuary and Cremation Services, Longmont. Cremation will follow. A memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, December 20, at the Howe Mortuary Chapel.Donations in Howard's memory may be made to Howe Mortuary, 439 Coffman St., Longmont, CO 80501.Please share thoughts, memories and condolences with the family at www.howemortuary.com.