Michael Barnes

It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of our beloved Michael Barnes, who left us on February 4, 2025 in Altamonte Springs, FL He was born on September 10, 1949 in Sturgis, MI to Richard Prestidge and Rubye (Brothers) Prestidge. He grew up in Bronson, Mi. His natural father predeceased him at age 7. His mother was remarried to Charles Barnes and Michael was adopted by him when he was 15 years old. He built his own computer at 15. He attended Michigan State University. He trained leader dogs and raised other dogs for show in Mi. He was a bright, intelligent, professional, computer consultant at the peak of his career, having worked for Chrysler Corporation, Red Lobster, and CSC at Kennedy Space Center, among others. He had many interests and had an unpredictable and fun sense of humor. He was a quiet person and wasn't one to burden others with his problems. He loved dogs, model trains, John Deere Tractors, glass marbles, plants, sea shells, nature, and model cars. He would listen to online services from his wife's church service with her at every opportunity he could. He had a deep love for Jesus, family and friends with all his heart. He had a very deep yearning for family who lived far away.

He is predeceased by his parents, and half sister, Joy (Barnes) Fisher. He is survived by his wife of nearly 42 years, Eileen (Holz) Barnes, half brother, Scott Barnes, sister-in-law Ellen (Hourtienne) Barnes, half brother, Kevin Barnes, and sister-in-law Angela (Licht ) Barnes. He is also survived by his daughters, Athena Barnes, Heather (Barnes) Fortman, granddaughters, Danelle (Hurst) Puckett, grandson-in-law, Eric Puckett, Sara (Piaskowski) Warnke, grandson-in-law, Ryan Warnke, Grandsons Jared Trimborn and Liam Savage. Michael is also survived by five great granddaughters and many nieces and nephews.

Michael will continue to live on in our hearts for his life and courage in the face of great suffering and pain in the later years of life with multiple conditions.

We will forever cherish our memories of Michael and how he touched each of our lives with love, caring, affection, humor and wisdom. We are at peace, though grieving for a time, knowing that he is in the Lord's arms, in heaven, free from pain and experiencing exceeding joy. We look forward to seeing him again when we will be together in everlasting life!

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that contributions suggested to the family or donations be made to - Michael J. Fox Foundation in Michael's honor.