More detail on this person: Roger Allen Barnes, beloved husband, father, and decorated Vietnam veteran, passed away on May 10, 2024, in Bentonville, AR, lovingly surrounded by his family. He was born on October 11, 1939, in Sioux Falls, SD, to the late Paul and Olga (Anderson) Barnes. At a young age Roger was fascinated with flight, speed, and all things mechanical. At the age of 17 he joined the US Air Force, then the US Army. Throughout his military career he was stationed around Europe, Asia, and the US. All the while collecting experiences, which he would fondly recall for years to come. From road racing motorcycles to sailing in European waters, there is no doubt he had his share of incredible life experiences. He served multiple tours during the Vietnam War as a pilot, earning The Distinguished Flying Cross, Air Medal Awards, Bronze Star, amongst many others. Afterwards he continued his dedication to aviation, instruction, and mechanics until his retirement as a Chief Warrant Officer 4. His commitment to his work and his country was unwavering, and he carried the pride of his service with him throughout his life. On April 30, 1977 he married his sweetheart, Sin Hui, whom he met while stationed in South Korea. They built their life together first in North Carolina, then Louisiana (where their daughter Cynthia was born), until eventually settling in Northwest Arkansas in 1990. Beyond his military career he took immense pride in his work and unwavering ethics. Previously as a pilot for Petroleum Helicopters Inc. in Louisiana, pilot/base manager for Air Evac Lifeteam in Springdale, and alongside his wife, Owner and Administrator of Career Academy of Hair Design, then finally the Academy of Professional Cosmetology. While in the Cosmetology Education industry he served as a NACCAS Accreditation Evaluator and Region VI member, to ensure educational standards and integrity of the industry. Together Roger and Sin built a thriving business and legacy which touched the lives of many in their community. Roger was deeply involved in various organizations, reflecting his diverse interests and expansive history. He was a member of the 281st Assault Helicopter Company Association, Springdale Lions Club, Grand Lake Sailing Club, Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA), and the Vietnam Helicopter Pilots Association. His involvement in these groups spoke to his commitment to giving back and connecting with others who shared his passions. He was a generous and kind man who could always be counted on to be there to help however he could. Especially if he could talk about it with you over a cup of coffee and pie. He highly valued education, and always encouraged those around him to continue learning. An educator at his core, finding joy in sharing his knowledge, and celebrating in the accomplishments of others. He was loved so dearly and will be greatly missed by family and friends. Roger is preceded in death by his parents, Paul, and Olga Barnes, as well as his brothers, Paul, Raymond, and Gene, and sisters, Dolores, and Suzanne. He is survived by his loving wife, Sin Hui Barnes, his daughter, Cynthia Barnes, his sister-in-law, Elva Barnes, and numerous nieces and nephews. A celebration of Roger's life will be held Saturday, June 22, 2024, at 1:00 PM at Nelson-Berna Funeral Home of Rogers. Details will be forthcoming. Inurnment will take place at a later date at Arlington National Cemetery, where Roger will be laid to rest with honors among his fellow veterans.
Burial information: Arlington National Cemetery
This information was last updated 08/28/2024
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Date posted on this site: 01/11/2025
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