Obituary of James R. Barnes

James R. Barnes, 82, beloved father, passed away on Sunday, March 12, 2017, at his home in Melbourne Beach, FL. James was born in Nortonville, KY, on January 22, 1935, to Arthur and Myrtle Barnes. He lived in NW Indiana most of his life and worked until retirement in the steel industry.  He continued to work and lived briefly in Johnson City,TN and Dalton, GA.  His last seven years of retirement were spent in Melbourne Beach. James was a hard worker, a great provider, had amazing skills with his hands and could make or fix just about anything. He even built his own house. He loved reading, especially history, and had a tremendous amount of knowledge that he enjoyed sharing.  He had a sarcastic wit and loved telling a joke.  But his greatest enjoyment his last few years was just being with his family. James is survived by his five children; Carolyn Hauser, Debby Medley, Sandy Gammon, Terry Barnes, and Kevin Barnes; daughters-in-law Alona Barnes and Breia Barnes; sons-in-law Lee Medley and Joe Gammon; 13 grandchildren; 12 great grandchildren; two sisters, Molly Blaine and Myrt Cook; and numerous nieces, nephews, and friends. At his request, a funeral will not be held.  Upon cremation, his ashes will be scattered over the water by his children.