Jack G. Barnes was born on 28 FEB 1935, in Blytheville, AR to Freddie (Russel) Barnes and Roy Barnes, the third child of eight total. His siblings included, Robbie Barnes (deceased), Betty Nichols (deceased) --- twin sister of Jack, Shirley Liles (Michigan City, IN), Carlos Barnes (deceased), Richard Barnes (La Porte, IN), Marilyn Childers (deceased), and Ralph Barnes (St. Petersburg, FL).
On 18 AUG 1962, he married Beverly V. Eley at the United Methodist Church in North Judson, IN. They were blessed with two children, Brent (Paige) Barnes (Myrtle Beach, SC) and Desiree (Paul) Molinaro (Acworth, GA.). With a total of four grandchildren, they are as follows: Alec (Bradley) Molinaro (Seattle, WA), Logan (Stephanie) Molinaro (Acworth, GA), Kylee Barnes (Charleston, SC), and Sydney Molinaro (Athens, GA).
Before meeting Beverly and prior to being drafted, Jack volunteered for the US Army in 1955. He served his country honorably in the US Army from 1955-57, while on active duty. He was selected and trained as a combat engineer. Upon successful completion of his initial entry training for active-duty, he was asked to convert to the military police due to the needs of the Army; he said sure, I’ll do whatever you need me to do. He then subsequently served in the Indiana National Guard from 1957- 1961, again culminating with an honorable discharge. Jack loved the US Army, this country, our flag and what it stands for.
Jack successfully served 43 years as a NIPSCO Gas Servicemen and was also a skilled Pipefitter. Dependable and consistent with an extraordinary work ethic, Jack was highly dedicated to always giving his best effort.
After retiring, Jack and Beverly spent time traveling to see their grandchildren, their daughter Des and her family while they lived in South Carolina & Georgia, and their son Brent and his family wherever they were stationed at in the US Army, including Hawaii, Germany, Rhode Island and Florida. As he gradually lost his eyesight, Jack and Beverly traveled less, yet he still liked to go out to eat with family and friends.
God blessed Jack in so many ways, as he would say with fortitude. He also often stated his love for his wife, children as well as grandchildren and was most admittedly blessed when he accepted Jesus as his savior, later in his adulthood.
A Memorial Service will be held at 11 a.m. Thursday, July 2, 2026, at the La Porte First United Methodist Church, 1225 Michigan Avenue, La Porte, Indiana. Family and friends may visit from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. prior to the Service on Thursday in the Church. Pastor Timothy Ahlemeyer will officiate.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Frank L. Keszei Funeral Home, Essling Chapel in La Porte.
Memorial contributions may be made to the V.F.W. Post 1130, 181 McClung Road, La Porte, Indiana 46350.
Family and friends are invited to light a virtual candle, share a memory, or leave a message of comfort for the family by visiting esslingfuneralhome.com.
