Ernest John Barnes

Ernest John Barnes, 92, of Idaho Falls, formerly of Roberts, died Thursday, September 13, 2012 at Promontory Point Rehab in Idaho Falls. He was born June 9, 1920 in Idaho Falls to Ephraim Harry Barnes and Ida Augusta Janson Barns, the youngest of seven children. He graduated from Midway High School in 1939, and continued his education at the University of Idaho in Moscow. In 1940 he enlisted in the US Army Air Corps, he served during World War II in the European campaign, and was honorably discharged in 1945. On March 19, 1952 he married his sweetheart, Ruth Fullmer in Rexburg; their marriage was solemnized in the Idaho Falls LDS Temple on April 11, 1972. They had four children, Mick, Boyd, Mary-Jane and Ray, who helped grow their abundant family. Sadly in 1991, Ernie lost his loving wife. Ernie sheared sheep with his brother Frank Barnes, and for the Coolies, and built potato cellars for over 35 years with Barnes Brothers, retiring in 1985. Ernie was an active member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and served in many capacities. He also served on the City Council in Menan. He took up golf at the age of 68 and was a member of the Senior Golf Club in both Rexburg and Idaho Falls. Ernie and Ruth enjoyed traveling and traveled all over the United States and Canada. He lived a good long life and is loved by all so very much. He is survived by his children, Mary Jane (Stacey) Kelsey, of Roberts, Raymond (Tina) Barnes, of Menan, 18 grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife, Ruth Barnes, sons, Boyd Barnes, Mick Barnes, his parents, 3 sisters and 3 brothers. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m., Tuesday, September 18, 2012, at the Roberts LDS Chapel, 663 N. 2858 E., Roberts. The family will receive friends from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m. Monday at Eckersell Memorial Chapel, 101 W. Main St. Rigby, and from 9:30 to 10:45 a.m., prior to services at the church. Burial will be in the Annis Little Butte Cemetery under the care of Eckersell Memorial Chapel in Rigby.