Gary Louis Barnes

Rev. Gary Louis Barnes passed away April 3rd 2021, in Mesa Arizona due to long term complications from Covid-19 and a life long battle with diabetes.

Gary was born December 12, 1953 in Eureka California, to Louis and Wanda Barnes. The family moved to Cordova Ak in 1963, where he and his two brothers Stephen and Randy, joined their father in our fishing fleet.

He graduated from Cordova high school and enjoyed an internship with the Governor’s office before enrolling with the Bethel fellowship Bible college, in Seattle Washington. It was there he would find his calling, make life long friends and convince his wife, LaRue to marry him.

In 1978, he became a joint pastor in Carnation Washington. Returning in 1982 to the hometown of Cordova to begin 30 + years as pastor of The Little Chapel.

Despite his extended battle with diabetes and long hours serving his church, Gary loved to tinker. If it had an engine, he either had, was or was planning on “fixing” it. He worked on cars, boats, snow machines and even built a kit plane. Many might remember his gyroscope ultralights as well. He loved to fly and he loved the water.

But above all, he loved God and his calling as Pastor. For more then 30 years he fulfilled that role for The Little Chapel. Faithfully performing many weddings, funerals, dedications and special services. He strove to spread God’s message at every opportunity. Along with his wife LaRue, he not only supported many missionaries, he traveled to visit and fellowship with them. He guided the congregation through the planning and building of the current Church location. He helped many people find or renew their faith.

Gary was proceeded in death by his father Louis Barnes and brother Randy Barnes.

He is survived by his Mother Wanda Barnes, wife LaRue Barnes, Daughter Seana Barnes (spouse Jacinta Fowler Barnes), Brother Stephen Barnes, niece Taylor Eisberg, nephews Erik and Steffan Ronnegard, his in-laws George and Leona Olsen and sister in-law Lennette Ronnegard, who fully adopted him as their own. He proudly stepped in to be an “Uppa” to his step-grandson’s Tyler Bieble and Jacek Grad. Extended family, church family and many friends who became family.

As LaRue and Seana are both currently recovering from their own surgeries, a memorial date and announcement will be made once they are able to safely travel.