William Burrough Barnes

William Burrough Barnes, 82, of Danville passed away at 5:24 p.m., Sunday, March 18, 2007, at Provena United Samaritans Medical Center. Born August 18, 1924 in Danville, he was the eldest son of John S. and Harriet A. (Krauel) Barnes. He graduated from Danville High School in 1942, and served in the United States Army during World War II, receiving numerous medals, including the Purple Heart. Bill married Anita Lois Houston on June 29, 1947 in Danville, Illinois. She preceded him in death on January 16, 2007. Survivors include three children William (Victoria) of Westville, Suellen (Paul) Millikin of Danville, and Brian (Penny) of Tolono, seven grandchildren, Cheri Millikin of Cincinnati, OH, Jon Millikin of Sunny Isles, FL, Laurie (Steve) Rolinitis of Morton, Ashley and Troy Barnes of Westville, Brian and Amy Barnes of Tolono, and three great-grandchildren, Bryce, Tyler, and Kylie Rolinitis. Also surviving are four brothers, Jack, Walter, Buddy, and Gene, and two sisters, Mary Ann (Maynard) Laub, and Judith (Tom) Jennings. He was preceded in death by his parents, five brothers, one son, and one grandson. Bill worked as a Journeyman Tool and Die Maker, and as a Mechanical Engineer, retiring from Danville Metal Stamping in 1990. Bills record as a member of the Masonic fraternity is extensive. He was a member of Olive Branch Lodge No. 38, serving as Worshipful Master and secretary. Bill was a Grand Lecturer, and Instructor of the 8th Eastern District. He also served as District Deputy Grand Master. He was an honorary member of several area lodges and held memberships in a variety of distinguished Masonic organizations. Bill was a member of Scottish Rite, in which he held numerous offices. He received the 33 in 1972 and was awarded the Citation for Distinguished Service by the Illinois Council of Deliberation. Bill also joined the York Rite and served as a presiding officer in each body. Other memberships included Saxa Rubra Conclave, Red Cross of Constantine, Lily of the Valley Tabernacle, Holy Royal Arch Knight Templar Priests, Allied Masonic Degrees, Illinois Council Thrice Illustrious Masters, and East Central York Rite College 81. Bill was honored with the Knight York Cross of Honor, the Order of the Purple Cross-of York, and the Royal Order of Scotland. He was also a member of Ansar Shrine. Following his love of flowers, Bill became a Master Gardener and appeared regularly on WILL-TVs Illinois Gardener program. He received several state awards for excellence in serving the Extension service, and was recognized by the United States Navy for his contribution to Navy Youth programs. His other interests included his family, computers, reading, and genealogy. Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m., Thursday, March 22, 2007, at Sunset Funeral Home in Danville, with Reverend Doctor Katie Hopper officiating. Burial with Military Honors will be at Sunset Memorial Cemetery. Visitation will be from 4 to 8 p.m. on Wednesday, March 21st at the funeral home, with Masonic services at 7:30. Memorials may be made to Riley Childrens Cancer Research Center or the Shrine Childrens Hospital. E-mail condolences may be sent to the family at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com.