Donald D. Barnes, 81, of Topeka formerly of Soldier, KS, died Wednesday, August 1, 2012 at a Topeka nursing home. Donald was born January 6, 1931 in Havensville, KS, the son of Frederick Leroy and Mabel Kathryn Rule Barnes.

Donald graduated from Soldier High School in 1949 and then served, with the United States Army, two years with the Engineer Division during the Korean Conflict in Salisburg, Austria. Don married Ruth Harry on December 3, 1951. He was a heavy equipment operator and tractor mechanic. He was also employed by Barnes Sand & Gravel, Barnes Oil Company. After retirement Don worked as an Intermittent at the VA Hospital in Topeka for 12 years. In the late 60’s and 70’s he played rhythm and lead guitar with the “Sierra’s” and entertained a lot of northeast Kansas.

Don is survived by his wife, Ruth of the home, his children, Rick D. Barnes of CA and Monica L. Jacobs of Topeka, KS, 5 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by 4 sisters, Marjorie White, Evelyn Barnes, Ethel Barnes and Vivian Barr; 4 brothers, Raymond “R.S.”, Dallas, Freddie and Dale F. Barnes.

Burial was in Soldier Cemetery. A memorial service will be 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. Sunday, August 5, 2012 at Rolling Hills Christian Church in Topeka. Memorial contributions may be made to the Humane Shelter in Topeka and left c/o Mercer Funeral Home, P.O. Box 270, Holton 66436.