Francis R. Barley

 

image of Francis Barley

Francis Barley

Francis R. Barley, Sergeant First Class, husband, father, son, brother, uncle, and friend lost his long health battle on December 15, 2021, at the age of 85. Frank served over 20 years in the Army and was a Vietnam veteran. He received numerous decorations, medals, badges, and commendations. While Frank was humble about his time in the Army, he was integral in shaping how the Army feeds their people today via short order menus and was also known for carving an ice sculpture or two. Frank was preceded by his father, Michael, mother Katherine, sister Margaret, and brothers Robert, Jim, Jack, and Tom.

In life, Frank met his wife Kum while managing the Non-Commissioned Officer’s Club at West Point, New York. They were married for nearly 48 years, spending most of their time in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. There, Frank worked at the USPS for 25 years and pursued his love of the outdoors by spending countless hours at his beloved hunting camp.

Frank leaves behind the love of his life Kum, daughter Francine, nieces and nephews, MaryJo Hart, Peggy Rose, Jean Hansen, Richie Barley, Carol Ransdell, Butch Barley, Karen Barley, Michael Barley, Shirley Barley, Theresa Kennedy, John Barley, Ken Barley, Joe Barley, and John Barley.

An Army honors ceremony will be held at 1230 December 28th at the Tahoma National Cemetery in Kent, WA. In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting that contributions be made to support veterans with PTSD by donating to the Wounded Warrior Project.

13 Responses to “Francis R. Barley”

  • Peggy and Vern says:

    Kum and Francine,
    We have so many fond memories of uncle Frank. I know we always had great times and many laughs during our visits. He was a special uncle, loved by many and I will miss him. May he now rest peacefully. And my sincere condolences to you both.

  • Peggy Hail says:

    I am so sorry to hear of Frank’s passing. He would always give me a big smile when I came to visit or encountered him walking around the neighborhood with you. I could see the humble strength he had in trying to do as much as he could. My prayers and thoughts are with you and Francine and hope his memories will sustain you in this sad time. –Peggy H

  • Janet Niles says:

    I was always so happy to see Frank and Kum with their dog stroll by on their walk around the neighborhood. Although he had to struggle some he always responded with a smile and Kum made sure he go his exercise. He will be missed.

  • Phil Brady says:

    I was impressed with Frank’s unrelenting faith and courage. As a former usher at Saint Jude’s, it was my pleasure to be of service to Frank and Kum.

  • Jeanne Brown says:

    I am so sorry to hear of Frank’s passing. I really enjoyed seeing Kum, Frank and their little dog walk around the neighborhood. It always encouraged me to get out more and get the exercise I really needed. He will be deeply missed by the whole community.

    My prayers with with Kum, Francine and their extended family.

  • Bev and Len says:

    Our blessings to you Kum and your daughter, Francine. We were so sorry to learn of Frank’s passing. You have both been such a wonderful part of our Cascara Community. You both always made us feel so good as you and your sweet Moki (sp?) walked by always with a big smile and a warm greeting. We hope your wonderful memories will help you during this most difficult time.🙏❤️

  • Rich says:

    On days when I felt like I had no reason to smile along came Frank with his infectious smile and . . . I had to join in! His long struggle is over. God Bless his whole family and especially Kum. I’m here for you!

  • Sylvia & Jos says:

    We are so sorry to hear about the passing of Frank. We always enjoyed having a little chat with him and Kum during our walk in the neighborhood! We admired the strength and discipline you both had to go on your daily walks, even when it was not easy for Frank. Kum we admire your strength and optimism. We wish you and Francine lots of strength and love in this most difficult time ❤️ RIP Frank

  • Doug and Cyndie says:

    Frank was always spreading good cheer in the neighborhood. He was an inspiration to many people, including us. We send our blessings. Rest in Peace dear Frank!

  • Carmen and Ed Freeman says:

    Sorry for your loss…
    We will miss seeing Frank during walks around the neighborhood! Always loved our encounters with you, Frank, and little Mugi! Our hearts are with you! We send love and blessings to you, Kum, and the family.

  • barbara landgren says:

    it’s difficult to convey feelings at this time i simply want to say how much our community hero will be missed his spirit lightened our home every time he walked by
    his smile was a very special gift my prayers for the progress of his soul & the family who will miss him dearly
    kum, your reward will be in the next life – a heroine caregiver who always has time for everyone else

  • jean yi says:

    I am so sorry to hear of frank’s passing. rest in peace.

  • Robert Brashears says:

    Frank was a special Army friend who I think of often.

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