William "Bill" Barnes

William “Bill” Barnes, 87, of Wooster, passed away Friday, December 9, 2022, at Ohio’s Hospice LifeCare in Wooster. 

Bill was born December 21, 1934, in Swansea, Ontario, Canada to Edith (Slinger) and Thomas Wiseman Barnes. He married Jean King on June 4, 1960.  Bill joined Akron Manufacturing of Canada in 1961, was transferred to Wooster retiring as Vice President after 30 years of service.  After his retirement, he owned MC Products in Wooster. He was honored to work within the fire-service industry and valued the connections he made through his involvement with FAMA, FEMSA and NFPA.  Most significant was his deep respect for first responders worldwide, not only for their heroic actions but also for the equally important, every-day professionalism, skill, kindness and sacrifice. He saw this professionally and personally, as he received excellent care and compassion from our own Wooster Fire Department.  Bill also held a deep respect for the Nick Amster community and would urge other businesses to collaborate with this valuable Wayne County organization. 

Bill will be deeply missed by his wife, Jean, daughter Michelle (Corey Spitler) Barnes of Wooster, grandchildren Devon (Logan Miller) Spitler and Ella Spitler; great-grandchildren Teo and Vera Miller.

Bill was preceded in death by his brother Thomas Barnes and sister Harriet Barnes.

The family would like to thank the staff of Danbury Senior Living, WCH Transitional Care Unit & LifeCare Hospice.  Each Nurse and Aide facilitated dignity, compassion and expertise throughout this difficult time, and we thank you.  

A Celebration of Life service will be held Saturday at 2pm at St. James Episcopal Church with Rev. Evan Fischer officiating. Inurnment will be at the church. Roberts Funeral Home – Sherwood Chapel, Wooster is assisting with arrangements. Online tributes may be made at www.RobertsFuneralHome.com. Memorial contributions may be made to Ohio’s Hospice LifeCare, 1900 Akron Rd., Wooster, OH 44691 or Nick Amster, 1700 Old Mansfield Rd., Wooster, OH 44691.