Melburn Clay “Bud” Barnes, age 94 of Fredonia, KS, passed away Saturday, November 19, 2022 at Morningstar Care Homes in Fredonia.
Bud was born December 28, 1927 in Fredonia, KS to Troy and Pearl (Fyfe) Barnes. He grew up the youngest of 3 children, and being the youngest and the only boy, his parents spoiled him. He attended school in Fredonia, and graduated from Fredonia High School.
In February 1946, Bud enlisted in the United States Army. He proudly served his country, and was sent to Italy and Germany during WWII. He was later called back into inactive reserve status during the Korean War. After serving, Bud attended Railroad school in Kansas City. He then worked for the railroad, and Standard Oil Company in Neodesha, before going to work for First National Bank in Fredonia. He spent many years at the bank, retiring as Vice-President when he turned 60 years old.
Bud married Mary Ann Robertson on February 6, 1949 in Fredonia. They spent 65 wonderful years together until her passing in 2014. They raised 2 children together, and although Bud was active in many different organizations, he somehow always made time for his family.
In his spare time, Bud enjoyed quail hunting, which was an every weekend event during the season. He also spent time in Colorado fishing. His other true passion was sports. He loved the KC Royals and Chiefs. He used to sell KC Chiefs game tickets at the bank.
He was a member of the Fredonia VFW and once served as the Post Commander, he served on the School Board, was a member of the United Methodist Church where he served as an usher, Treasurer, and on many committees over the years, the Fredonia Rotary Club, served as a Boy Scout Leader for a time, and donated blood every time the Red Cross came to town. He was very proud of the fact that he had donated 26 gallons of blood throughout his lifetime. His true passion was the Masonic Constellation Lodge #95 AF&AM, where he was a member for 70 years. He served in too many positions and on too many committees to list, but he truly had a history with the lodge that cannot be matched.
Bud is survived by his children
Mel Barnes and wife Mary of Fredonia, KS
Lindy Schmidt and husband Steve of Pearland, TX
Grandchildren: Stephanie Shay, Chris (Jennifer) Barnes, and Brad (Christina) Barnes
Great-Grandchildren: Rylie Shay, Kiarra, Emerson, Kinzie, Karson, Stella, and Kai Barnes
He was preceded in death by his parents, wife Mary Ann, and grandson Brandon Shay
Funeral Services will be held at 10:30 AM on Monday, November 28, 2022 at the First United Methodist Church in Fredonia, with interment to follow in Fredonia City Cemetery.
Family will receive friends at visitation from 7:00 to 9:00 PM on Sunday, November 27, 2022 at Countryside Funeral Home in Fredonia.
Memorial contributions in honor of Bud can be made to the Fredonia Pound Pals or the First United Methodist Church of Fredonia, and can be mailed to or left with the funeral home.
Services entrusted to Countryside Funeral Home, 420 S. 20th, PO Box 247, Fredonia, KS 66736