Obituary

Bernard “Barney” Farley passed away peacefully on April 3, 2016 with family by his side. During the last three years, Barney battled a bone marrow disease that progressed into acute leukemia.  He knew the treatments would be difficult, but forever the optimist he lifted our spirits and fought a courageous battle.

Born May 5, 1944, Barney was so loved and respected by his family and friends for his kindness, humor, advice, and love of baseball, especially his association with the Pebble Creek Senior Softball League. He most loved just being with family and friends and “occasionally” visiting the local slots.

He began his career as an Avionics Apprentice at North Island Naval Repair Facility in San Diego, CA, in the 1960s and graduated from San Diego State University. Barney and his wife Carolyn moved from San Diego in 1978, relocating to various positions with the Department of Defense in Mechanicsburg, PA, and in the Washington DC area.  Barney retired as a Program Manager in support of naval industrial facilities and shipboard maintenance.  He was so honored to support members of our military services, and never forgot this was the primary mission.  After an exemplary career, he realized his dream of retiring and moved with Carolyn to the Pebble Creek community in 2004, which also allowed him to be near many family members in CA.

Barney was a special soul, who sought to better the lives of those for whom he cared or others in need of help. He could respond to requests without hesitation, or be awoken late at night to give some guidance, and occasionally step up on to his “soap box” to pontificate. He had a clear, analytic mind, complemented by a natural empathy, though he did not suffer fools lightly. Barney was never given the easy route, and he never took a hit without standing right back up. His legacy is the teachings passed down to the next generation and the example he set. He will be deeply missed.

Barney is survived by Carolyn, his best friend and wife of 40 years filled with love and happiness; sons David (Akiko) and Michael (Melanie); granddaughters Anna Marie, Ellen and Jessica; and great-grandson Wesley. He is also survived by seven brothers and sisters, Florence, Kathy, Ginny, Bobbie, Dennis, Terry and Jean Ann along with countless nieces and nephews.

A memorial service will be held at 10:00 am, Sunday, May 8, 2016 at the PebbleCreek Tuscany Club House, 16262 Clubhouse Dr, Goodyear, AZ 85395.  In lieu of flowers the family suggests donations to a favorite charity in his memory.