Rodney W. Barnes was a toolmaker
Rodney W. Barnes, 72, passed away unexpectedly on November 12, 2023. He was born August, 23, 1951 in Toledo to the late James W. and Betty (Stair) Barnes of Oregon, Ohio. Rodney graduated in 1969 from Clay High School in Oregon, Ohio and in 1973 from Bluffton College. He went through the apprenticeship program at Lima Ford Engine Plant and became a toolmaker, retiring in 2003.
Rodney was a precious husband to Michele (Reigle) Barnes whom he married on August 12, 1978. He is also survived by his two sons, of whom he was so proud, James Barnes of Bluffton, Dr. Caleb (Margaret) Barnes of Cedarville, Ohio and three adorable grand girls he loved and always gave tractor wagon rides, Evelyn Barnes, Naomi Barnes and Lydia Barnes four sisters, Gayle Broom of Waitsburg, Washington, Judy (Dan) DePeal of Walbridge, Ohio, Carol Howell of Toledo and Janice Pakema of Euless, Texas.
Rodney was preceded in death by his parents, James and Betty Barnes and a brother Jim Barnes of Florida.
We love you Rodney (“Dad”, “Papa”) and are so sad, and miss you with all our hearts.
Private graveside services will be held for Rodney.
Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.chiles-lamanfh.com/
Stories Posted This Week
Saturday, June 27, 2026
Friday, June 26, 2026
Thursday, June 25, 2026
- Alice June (Hochstettler) Kliewer worked at Grace Bible Institute
- Bluffton College grad was famous for memorizing all of Paradise Lost
- Leiber honored by Fremont Speedway Hall of Fame
- SCHS Swiss Day to be held at new Swiss Heritage Center, June 28
- Free movie: Eight on the Lam, July 27
- Screen time: Impact on youth update
Wednesday, June 24, 2026
- Ada Icon headlines, June 24
- Luvu a Latte temporary closure until July 14
- Results of Icon poll: How connected do you feel to the Bluffton community?
- Loving Laura’s Curls created to provide wigs for local cancer patients
- America 250 drone show illuminates Bluffton sky
- Recap of June 22 Bluffton Council Meeting