In Memory of Ray R. Barnes

Longtime Alaska resident and beloved husband Ray R. Barnes of Sterling died suddenly July 13, 2010, in Pittsburgh, Pa. He was 52 years old.

Ray was born Feb. 3, 1958, in Browning, Mont., to Lucy and Ray Barnes Sr. He spent his early years in Kalispell, Mont., and the rest of his life in Sterling.

His family writes: "Ray had spent the last two years as a contractor working for Fortuna and had just started a new chapter in his career working as a drilling superintendent for Talisman Energy USA. He built a strong reputation over the years as a hard working, no nonsense team player working for Nabors, Pool Arctic and Brinkerhoff on the North Slope. He knew rigs inside and out and won the admiration and respect of those he worked with. He had a kind and compassionate heart, was very generous and had a sense of humor that will never be duplicated.

"Ray was a self made man who had celebrated 19-plus years of sobriety. He was dedicated to his family and friends. He was a hero, our protector, the best husband, the best dad, the best man ever! There was never a dull moment and frequently a surprise, like the time he was featured in the October 2008 issue of GQ Magazine in an article titled 'Empire of Ice.' "

Ray was preceded in death by his parents, Ray Barnes Sr. and Lucy Nichols; grandparents, Marjorie and Shirley Sutton; stepfather, Alfred Nichols; aunt, Margaret Omsberg; stepbrother, Brent Nichols; and nephews, Chad Gorder and Alfred Willis.

Ray is survived by his wife, Lana; children, Abby Kennamer, Kyle Barnes, Ray J. Barnes and Kristina Barnes; sister, Rose Willis of Utah; brothers, Max Harrison of Montana and Ron Nichols of Kasilof; stepsister, Debi Honer of Soldotna; half-sister, Cheri Zurnieden Foss of Minnesota; sister-in-law, Bonnie Nichols of Soldotna; grandchildren, Kayla, Fisher and Liddle; numerous aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews; and many friends.

Songs listed in order: Dog & Butterfly by Heart, Glitter in the Air by Pink, and When I Said I do by Clint Black.

I love you dad!

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[abbeh15]

Happy birthday dad

[slowdotnaak]

The whole crew down at Kenai Harley will miss Ray as well as a few other shops around the country. Always a good time when he is around. Few pepole lived life like Ray did or enjoyed it as much! Rest in Peace Ray.

[stephenandakemismom]

this is pretty cool. My husband worked with TooDogs's son Ray-Ray for a while on 3S!

[nugsalad]

<3 for you guys.