Assist The Barnes Family in Their Time of Need

I am Janet Villarreal, a best friend of Michael Barnes for over 37 years. Michael passed on to be with our Lord on December 10, 2024, at 4:20 pm. Michael lost his wife and mother of his children, Angela Barnes on October 8, 2007. Despite Michaels ongoing health issues stemming back to 1997, he continued to do his best in raising his children; Teal, Alura, Marlin, Varuka and he was very involved with his beloved grand-daughter, Aluna.

Michael has lived beyond 9 lives X 9 more lives, kept on keepin on miraculously through all of his pain, suffering and numerous hospital stays throughout the last 3 decades. A true warrior!

Michael was a loyal friend who never wavered in letting each and every one of his loved ones know how much they meant to him and he did it often. The last voicemail I have is dated 11/9/24. It was one of those sweet messages ending with him telling me that he loved me and how blessed he felt to have me in his life. I have been the blessed one to have such an enduring, heart-warming and sincerely loving friend in my life.

Finances have been a continuous struggle for Michael who maintained being a locksmith throughout all of his health issues over the years. He was always dreaming of ways to make $. He shared with me recently that he would like to learn how to drive a big truck. Teal became his dad's full-time caregiver since the last few hospital stays, what little of those finances are tied up due to awaiting the death certificate etc.

The Barnes Family can use help putting their dad to rest and to help fund a memorial service at The Starry Plow In Berkeley, California after the holidays. An announcement will be made when a date and time have been confirmed.

Michael's children have been trying to maintain employment in addition to navigating their father’s health condition. So it has been a lot, and finances all around are strapped.

Michael was the most loving father, uncle, brother and the best friend one could ever have. Rejoice, for Michael is completely out of pain and with our Lord in heaven along with our loved ones who have gone before us. Michael Barnes was so not afraid of heaven. He also was so not afraid to live! His true concern was that he really wanted to leave something of substance behind for his children, which were his life. He may have Teal is sorting these matters out, it is a process.

12/14/24 Update: Cremation fee = $1150

The Barnes Family is beyond grateful for any contribution to help put their father to rest. We vow to utilize efficiently in honor of our beloved Michael and humbly thank you. We do understand broke. The simple things like warm thoughts and prayers of comfort are greatly appreciated too!!

Michael J Barnes

Sunrise - April 1, 1963

Sunset - December 10, 2024