Walter "Buck" Self Barnes

BARNES, WALTER SELF (BUCK) - age 73, of Louisville, TN, passed away Wednesday, April 27, 2011. Walter was born in Knoxville, TN on December 20, 1937. He developed his interest in airplanes and flying from his grandfather, Walter I, Self, owner of the first airport in Knoxville, and took flying lessons as a teenager at Island Home Airport. As a boy, he won the Knoxville Journal Carriers' contest to meet Gen. Douglass MacArthur. He graduated from Young High in 1955 and from UT in 1964 as an Industrial Engineer. Walter served in the US Army at Ft. Bliss, TX. He worked for GE and retired from Owens Corning Fiberglass. He was awarded AIIE's 1976 Engineer of the Year. An avid genealogist, Walter's research qualified his family for First Families of Tennessee. His interest in technology led to his affinity for photography, computers, amateur radio, and electronics. Boy Scouts, gardening, sailing and camping evolved from his love of the outdoors. He was a skilled woodworker, building many items for his family. For many years he has been a loyal dittohead. Walter was preceded in death by parents Clarence Haynes Barnes and Helen Self Barnes, and nephew Nick Walley. He is survived by his loving wife of 47 years Minga Bohlmann Barnes; sons Lawrence Edward (Kim) of Cary, NC, Russell Haynes (Charitie) and Walter Keefe (Gilvania) all of Charlotte, NC; grandchildren Madison, Sarah, Ashlie, and R. J., all of NC.; sister Roberta Pedigo (Tom); sisters-in-law Gerre Walley (Stephan) and Lynn Cain (Steve); nephews James and Jef Damewood, Todd Pedigo; great niece Kimberly Robin Damewood: young friend Baron Callihan; and numerous relatives. Walter's family will receive friends Monday, May 2, from 2 - 3:30 p.m. at Rose Mortuary Mann Heritage Chapel, followed by a Memorial service at 3:30 with Tom Minter officiating. A Private graveside service with Full Military Honors will be Tuesday, at Woodlawn Cemetery. For those who want to honor Walter with a memorial, the family suggests a donation to the American Cancer Society , 871 N Weisgarber Rd, Knoxville, TN 37909 or a charity of your choice. Arrangements by Rose Mortuary Mann Heritage Chapel. www.rosemortuary.com

Tributes

Walter "Buck" Self Barnes

December 20, 1937 - April 27, 2011