Virgil Wilson Barnard 6-19-24

In Loving Memory of Virgil Wilson Barnard (1929-2024)
With loving hearts, we bid farewell to Virgil Barnard, a beloved patriarch, veteran, master carpenter, and avid hunter/fisherman, who passed away peacefully at the age of 95, surrounded by his loving family. Virgil’s life was a testament to resilience, dedication, and passion, leaving an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Virgil was born Jan. 24, 1929 in American Falls, ID, to William T. and Sarah Elizabeth Barnard. Virgil grew up amidst the Great Depression, instilling in him a deep sense of resourcefulness and hard work from an early age. In his youth, Virgil discovered his love for woodworking, a passion that would shape the course of his life.
At the tender age of 17, Virgil answered the call of duty and proudly served his country in the United States Army during the Korean War. His bravery and commitment to his fellow soldiers earned him the utmost respect and gratitude. Despite the challenges and sacrifices of war, Virgil returned home with a profound appreciation for life and a renewed sense of purpose.
Upon his return, Virgil married the love of his life, Arlene Warner, from Aberdeen, ID. He dedicated himself to his craft as a carpenter, honing his skills with dedication and precision. His hands crafted countless homes, each one a testament to his meticulous craftsmanship and unwavering work ethic.
Beyond his work, Virgil found solace and joy on the tranquil waters, where he spent countless hours with a fishing rod in hand casting a line on a serene lake or fishing on the Snake River below the old powerhouse. Virgil’s love for fishing, hunting and camping was infectious. He cherished sharing this passion with his wife, all his family and his friends.
Virgil’s greatest source of pride and joy, however, was his family. He was a devoted husband to his wife, Arlene, and a loving father to his children Marla, Mike, Kevin and Debra. As the years passed, Virgil’s family continued to grow, and he embraced his role as a grandfather with unmatched enthusiasm. His grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren were his greatest treasures, and he delighted in sharing his wisdom, laughter, and stories with them.
He was preceded in death by his father, his mother, his wife Arlene, his siblings Dorothy, Bill and Gilbert, daughter Debra and his great-grandson Ethan Reeves. He is survived by immediate family; his sister Mary and children Marla, Mike, Kevin and numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren. In his later years, Virgil’s warm smile and gentle spirit continued to touch the lives of all who knew him. Though he may be gone from our sight, his legacy of love, integrity, and kindness will live on in the hearts of those he leaves behind.
While we shall mourn his loss, we take comfort in knowing that his spirit will forever guide and inspire us. May he rest in eternal peace, reunited with his beloved wife Arlene, and other family and friends. May his memory be a blessing to us all.
A celebration of Virgil’s life will be held at a later date where family and friends will gather to honor his memory and share stories of his remarkable journey.