Frank J. (Barney) Barnet |
| Posted 2008-07-30 by Judy Wight Branson |
| Daily Courier, Prescott, Arizona Sunday, April 25, 2004 Frank J. Barnet, known to his friends as "Barney," passed away on Sunday, April 18, 2004, at Yavapai Regional Medical Center in Prescott. Barney was born on Oct. 26, 1922, in Trenton, N.J. He entered the U.S. Army in 1943, joining the Airborne Infantry, and served with both the Rangers and the 101st Airborne, during which time he took part in the Normandy invasion and the Battle of Bastogne. He also saw action in Morocco and North Africa. As a result of his gallantry in action, he was twice decorated by President Roosevelt, once with the Bronze Star, with one oak cluster, and the Silver Star. He was twice awarded the Purple Heart and was decorated by the French and Belgium governments for outstanding courage. Barney later joined the U.S. Air Force as a parachute survival instructor, conducting experimental jumps to pass on techniques to pilots and crewmen to enhance their survivability. He made over 197 jumps, one of which was from 54,000 feet, setting a still standing world's record for free distance fall. For this, and other achievements, Barney became a highly decorated member of the U.S. Air Force. He retired in 1973. Barney is survived by his loving life companion of 15 years, Mary E. "Betty" Boatman of Prescott and her daughter, Michelle Webb of New River, Ariz.; daughters, Barbara and Patricia Simmons of Trenton, N.J.; as well as three grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandson. Barney was predeceased by his brother, Walt Bernatowicz, and is survived by a sister, Jean Wirpsza of Burlington, N.C. Visitation is scheduled for Monday, April 26th, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., at Arizona Ruffner Wakelin Funeral Home, 303 South Cortez Street, in Prescott. A Celebration of Barney's life will be held at 1 p.m., with Rev. Mr. John Lamon presiding. Full Military Honors will be rendered by the American Legion Post #6, in Prescott. Private burial will take place Tuesday at the National Memorial Cemetery of Arizona in Phoenix. Arizona Ruffner Wakelin Funeral Home assisted the family with the arrangements. Information provided by survivors. |
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