Benjamin Ben Barnes

Benjamin F. "Ben" Barnes, 82, of the Otter Creek area of Lake McConaughy, died Tuesday, May 26, 2015, in Swedish Medical Center in Englewood, Colo.

Ben was born August 4, 1932, in Minneola, Kan., the son of Benjamin and Ella (Travis) Barnes. As a young boy, he moved with his family to Montrose, Colo., where he grew up with his six siblings. He attended Montrose High School.

He entered the US Navy in 1952 and served in the Korean War aboard the destroyer USS Gurke, seeing duty in Japan, Midway, Korea and Hawaii. After returning home he enjoyed a long and fulfilling career in the automotive field. He retired as Parts Manager with Ogallala Motors in 2001.

Ben was an avid fisherman. His most enjoyable times were spent on Lake McConaughy fishing with his neighbor and friends. He also enjoyed gardening and in his earlier days participated in stock car racing. He was a lifetime member of the Elks.

Preceding him in death were three sisters and three brothers.

A viewing was held at the DeWitt-Tabler Funeral Home in Thornton, Colo. for the immediate family. Cremation was chosen. There will be no services.

Survivors include his wife Ellen Barnes of Lake McConaughy, three daughters: Diana (Bill) McClelland and Sandra Ansley, all of Montrose, CO., and Linda Barnes of Littleton, CO.; six grandchildren and three great-grandchildren; a sister-in-law Sue Bazylevich of Crystal River, Flo., and several nieces and nephews.

A memorial has been established to the Keystone-Lemoyne Fire & Rescue.  Online condolences may be sent by clicking on the Guest Book.

Draucker Funeral Home of Ogallala is in charge of arrangements

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