Robert Barnes, Founder of BCGS
Robert Barnes
March 22, 1939 ~ January 19, 2021 (age 81)
Bob Barnes conceived and founded the Baltimore County Genealogical Society in 1977.
The following was accessed 25 JAN 2021 at: https://www.evansfuneralchapel.com/notices/Robert-Barnes
Robert “Bob” W. Barnes passed away at the age of 81 on January 19, 2021, after a long and full life. Bob, a beloved husband and father, is survived by his wife of 60 years Catherine Barnes, his four children Robert Jr., Jo Anne, Nancy, and Sue, his five grandchildren Cate, Robert, Grace, Jared, and Hannah, and his great-granddaughter Luthien. Bob was always at the center of any gathering, with his laugh, conversation, and caring heart. He was a lover of history, and retired from teaching history after 36 years. He is a former President of the Maryland Genealogical and the Baltimore County Genealogical Societies, and worked as the verifying genealogist for many lineage societies. He published numerous books delving into the history of families in Maryland. His passion was to connect people to their past.
Bob had a beautiful baritone voice and feet that loved to dance. He sang for many years in the church choir, and even more importantly, encouraged others to sing. He loved to waltz and polka and always thought it important to be a gentleman.
Bob served his God faithfully throughout the years, as an elder and leader of the church. He made new visitors feel welcome and got to know people quickly. He had a special way of connecting with many people. Though his family rejoices that he is with God in heaven, he will be missed, along with his smile, love of bad puns and word puzzles, passion for his hobbies, memory of obscure movie facts, and love for his family and friends.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks any who wish to honor Bob’s memory to donate either to Perry Hall Presbyterian Church (perryhallpc@gmail.com) or the Maryland Historical Society (https://www.mdhistory.org/donate/) in his name.