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GRAND MARAIS, MI – Gary R. Barney, 70, of Grand Marais, passed away on September 20, 2026, at HSHS St. Vincent Hospital in Green Bay, WI, with his family at his side.
Gary was born on October 4, 1955, in Charleston, SC, to Richard M. and Adele M. (Mulligan) Barney. He was a 1973 graduate of Burt Township High School in Grand Marais, MI. Following high school, Gary joined the United States Air Force and enjoyed a 20-year military career, retiring in 1995 at K.I. Sawyer Air Force Base, where he was proud to have received an expert marksmanship ribbon. Upon his honorable discharge from the military, Gary worked for Cleveland-Cliffs at the Tilden Mine, retiring in 2017, after 18 years as a boiler man.
Gary married Katherine Soldenski on October 14, 1978, in Clinton Township, MI. Together, they went on to raise two beautiful daughters, Brenna and Trisha. Gary enjoyed hunting partridge. He loved the outdoors, particularly the beautiful colors of Fall, and enjoyed taking rides in his Jeep. He was also an avid fan of the Detroit Tigers and Detroit Lions and enjoyed watching Indiana Fever games with daughter Brenna. Additionally, he enjoyed spending time with his granddog Ollie. Gary loved playing games like Trains and Cribbage.
Above all, Gary cherished his family, especially the time he spent with his grandsons, Brody and Brandon. He was a devoted supporter of their sporting events, enjoyed teaching Brody how to drive, and enjoyed Brandon's cooking - most especially his pork chops. Gary had an immense sense of humor and was always known for being a jokester, with an unforgettable laugh.
Gary is survived by his wife, Katherine Barney of Grand Marais; his daughters, Brenna LaBeau (Jason) of Gwinn and Trisha Saul (Scott) of Lake Forest, CA; his grandsons, Brody and Brandon LaBeau of Gwinn; his brothers, Butch Barney and John Barney of Grand Marais; his sister, Cindy Elliott (Dennis) of Marquette; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Mark and Adele Barney, his hunting dog, Blaze, and his special fur friends Sparky, Reggie, Miley, and Ginger.
Per Gary's request, no formal services will be held.
Canale Gwinn Funeral Home and Cremation Services is assisting Gary's family where memories and condolences may be shared at canalefuneral.com.