Neil E. Barnes
January 23, 1950 ~ April 14, 2020
Retired Captain Neil E. Barnes, 70, died April 14, 2020 following a brief illness. A memorial service is planned for a later date when family, friends, and co-workers can share in his life’s celebration. He was a beloved husband, father, brother, and a hero to many in his career as a firefighter. Born in Phillipsburg, KS on January 23, 1950, Neil graduated from Wichita South High School in 1968 and, later, from Wichita State University. He started with the Wichita Fire Department on March 11, 1969 and retired as a Captain on January 7, 2017. He served as President of the International Association of Fire Fighter Local 666 for a number of years. He also worked for Office Max/Office Depot for over 20 years. He was preceded in death by his parents, Bill and Goldie Barnes; brother, Robert Barnes; sister, Yvonne Breshears; and nephews, Billy Logan and Ryan Barnes. He is survived by his wife, Annie Barnes; son, Nick (Misty Thompson) Kitch; granddaughters, Audrina and Brooklyn Kitch; sisters, Pat (Terry) Colson, Gladys (Larry Goins) Logan; brothers, Kevin Barnes, Phil (Margie) Barnes of Hutchinson, KS; nieces, Rosie (Jay) Sims, Rhonda Andrews, Amber Barnes, Michele Barnes; nephews, Tommy (Marsha) Edwards, Ronnie (Kim) Edwards, James (Stacy) Edwards, Robbie Logan, Gene (Denise) Logan, Donnie Logan, Monte Barnes, Regan Barnes, Quentin Barnes. Memorials may be sent to Kansas Firefighters Museum. Downing & Lahey Mortuary - East Chapel.
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I’m so sorry for loss Annie Nick and family our Prays will be with you
In memory of Neil E. Barnes, Richard Reeves lit a candle
In memory of Neil E. Barnes, Marty Marshall lit a candle
Back in the 70’s I was basically a rookie on the WFD and Neil, Bill Cook, CC Killingsworth and myself worked for Jacobs construction out of Kechi Ks. One of our jobs was to dismantle an old gas station at Webb and Kellog. That’s where I learned what a fine individual Neil was as was CC and Bill. Thoughts and Prayers are with Neils family.
We are so sorry for your loss, Annie! Neil was a great neighbor. He will be missed! Please let us know if you need anything! Love Mark, Julie, Molly, Ben and Rose
The final bell has sounded and Neil is responding to the call. Godspeed Neil.
Ann, I am so sorry to hear about the passing of Neal. My thoughts and prayers are with you and Nick. Martha Kopper
My sincere heartfelt condolences to those who loved and knew Neil as I have. Here’s a memory that i have of him. A couple of 14 year olds singing and playing “air guitar” with the “Rip Chords (She’s Real Fine My 409),” “Needles and Pins” by the Searchers and Jan and Dean’s “Sidewalk Surfin.'” We made our skateboard from a metal sidewalk skate, nailed and screwed to the bottom of a 2 x 4. We took turns towing each other behind our bikes, south down the sidewalk infront of Bill & Goldie’s house. I remember that both of us “wiped out” trying to make the turn for Joyland where the sign and Evergreens were. Too much speed equals road rash. Good times with a Best Friend.
Please accept our deepest condolences for your family’s loss.
The final bell has sounded, and Neil is responding to the call. Godspeed Neil. Career Wichita Firefighter.