William (Bill) John Barney, age 90 of Palmer, Alaska, died peacefully March 19, 2023, at home in Palmer, Alaska, with his loving family at his side.

Bill was born Dec. 28, 1932, in Rhinelander to Clarence and Helen (Warner) Barney.

After growing up in Rhinelander, Bill enlisted in the U.S. Navy in May 1952. He served his country during the Korean War and was honorably discharged in May 1956. He returned to Sugar Camp to raise his family and work at the Rhinelander Paper Company, retiring in February 1996.

Bill’s favorite past times were tinkering in the garage, hunting, fishing, walking in the woods and sitting by a campfire. He founded and volunteered for the Sugar Camp Rifle Club and other youth activities. He served on the volunteer fire department. He loved snowmobiling on the Wisconsin trails and could do a polka with the best of them. In 2009 he and his wife Barb fulfilled a long time dream and moved to Alaska. They lived with their daughter and son-in-law until time of passing. They traveled the state and Bill fished the many lakes, rivers and salt waters of Alaska until he could fish no more.

Bill is survived by his daughter, Kimberly (Ernie) Kirby; brother, Edward (Theresa) Barney; grandchildren, Jennifer (Frank) Finn, Bryan (Dionne) Kirby, Jamie Arms, Jessica (Ryan) Mullaley, Michael Barney; great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews and many lifelong friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; spouse, Barbara; daughter, Carrie Marie Franck; son, Patrick Alan Barney; brother, Kenneth Barney and niece, Rebecca (Franck) Batiste.

A memorial service was will be held Saturday, April 8, at the American Legion Post 15 in Palmer, Alaska.