Bruce E. Barnes

It is with deep sadness that we share the news of Bruce Ernest Barnes’ passing on July 31, 2025. Bruce was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend whose generosity, humor, and unwavering love left a lasting mark on all who knew him.

Bruce most recently lived in Chicago, Illinois, to be close to his daughter Stephanie Barnes, her husband Kevin Schaefer, and his treasured grandchildren, Charlotte and Paul. He also spent a meaningful year of retirement living in Rancho Mirage, California with his daughter Laura Bradford, her husband Jon Robert Bradford, and his youngest grandson, Jon Bruce. These were cherished times filled with connection, joy, and love spanning generations.

Bruce was a proud father, a loving grandfather, and a loyal friend—but above all, he was a true character. Known for his quick wit, knowledge of trivia, endless curiosity, and magnetic personality, he had a unique gift for making people laugh and feel at ease. A good neighbor and mentor to many in his field, his peers and friends will miss his guidance and humor.

He was born and raised in Lowville, New York, and attended Syracuse University. He graduated from Fairleigh Dickinson University with an MBA while beginning a career in marketing in New York City. He later settled in the Chicagoland area, where he met and built a life with his beloved late wife, Candyce Boutin Barnes. Together, they raised their daughters in Westchester, Illinois, filling their home with love, laughter, and the strong values that shaped their family. Candy preceded Bruce in death in 2005, as did his twin brother, Burnell Barnes, in 2016, and both of his parents Earle and Marion. Bruce is survived by his dear sister, Bette.

Bruce found deep fulfillment in his work as a realtor with Coldwell Banker in LaGrange, Illinois. Clients and colleagues often became friends—drawn in by his warmth, honesty, and unmatched dedication.

He was a man of many passions and hobbies—he loved the water, spending time scuba diving and swimming, and treasured his time boating, waterskiing, and shooting at Beaver Lake in upstate New York. He rarely missed a Packers game, looked forward to Shark Week every summer, and enjoyed the comforting ritual of watching Svengoolie on Saturday nights. He was also a dedicated and faithful member of the Presbyterian Church of Western Springs, where he served as a deacon for many years.

Bruce was a proud volunteer with BEDS, a program provided to unhoused people to access food, basic supplies, and shelter, for many years. He was also an avid supporter of the Wounded Warrior Project and several animal rescue organizations.

Bruce loved his daughters deeply and was endlessly proud of the lives they built. He adored his sons-in-law and was completely smitten with his grandchildren, who brought him profound joy and purpose. He also shared a close bond with his sister, Bette DiLeonardi, and his niece, Barbie Boules.

He loved his dog Frankie, a constant companion and source of comfort in his later years, and cared for him with unwavering love until his very last day.

Bruce approached each day with humor, kindness, and resilience. He will be so dearly missed.

In lieu of flowers, kindly make donations to Young at Heart Senior Pet Adoptions.

A memorial service will be held on September 27 at 11:00 AM at the Presbyterian Church of Western Springs.

Arrangements entrusted to Chicagoland Cremation Options in Schiller Park, Illinois.