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Ralph Barnett Barnes
January 10, 1947 ~ April 5, 2014
ARLINGTON -- Ralph Barnett Barnes Jr passed peacefully from this world on Saturday April 5, 2014 following a lengthy illness.
Service: A celebration of his life will be held 1 PM on April 15, 2014 at Wade Family Funeral Home, 4140 West Pioneer Parkway, Arlington. A reception will follow at the Shady Valley Golf Club, 4001 W Park Row Dr., Arlington.
Memorials: In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you consider a donation to: Bassett Hound Rescue of North Texas, www.Bassettrescuedfw.org or The University of Arkansas College of Engineering, www.engr.uark.edu
Ralph was born in Little Rock Arkansas on January 10th 1947.
He received his Bachelor of Science and Master of Science degrees from the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville. Ralph was a civil engineer who focused much of his work in the geotechnical part of civil engineering. He was a devout Razorback fan teaching his three grandchildren Kylie, Kyndal and Gavin Barnes his hog calls. After working for international and local engineering firms he and his partners established HBC engineering where he became a well respected member of the engineering community.
Ralph was a mentor, the consummate trusted advisor and a special friend to many in the engineering community. He was a leader and the preeminent authority of geotechnical engineering in North Texas. Mr Barnes was admirably respected by colleagues, clients and competitors.
Ralph was a member of the American Society of Civil Engineers, National and Texas Society of Professional Engineers, Chi Epsilon (a civil engineering fraternity) and Lambda Chi Alpha (a social fraternity). Ralph was named young engineer of the year in 1978 for the mid cities chapter of TSPE and served as president of the chapter from 1981 through 1982. TSPE named him engineer of the year in 1988.
Ralph is a register professional engineer in Texas and Arkansas. He was active in community affairs working for the United Way, little league and parent teacher associations.
Mr. Barnes was an avid golfer and enjoyed many afternoons on the golf course with valued friends and associates. After retirement he joined his fellow golfers in the Arlington Senior Mens Golf Association.
Survivors: Ralph is survived by his loving wife of 48 years, Carolyn Murphy Barnes; his devoted son, Buz Barnes and wife, Cindy; and his 3 adoring grandchildren.
Wade Family Funeral Home
Arlington, 817-274-9233
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I went to Central with Ralph and live in Allen, TX. I tried to find him last year when I was trying to get some of our classmates together for lunch,. When I think of Ralph, I think of someone who was always nice to everyone and someone who was well-liked. I’m so sorry for your loss.
Ralph and I played basketball together at Little Rock Central. He was a good friend and teammate. I pray for your family during this difficult time God Bless
I knew Ralph on a professional level for many years. I appreciated his knowledge as well as his ability to combine it with common sense. A quality that is hard to find in his field. The industry will miss him. I am sorry for the family’s loss.
Ralph was a friend and teammate at Little Rock Central. A good person that will be remembered and missed by all. My deepest condolences to his family.
My thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.
“Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.” Matthew 5:4
Ralph was my geotechnical mentor and played a major role in my development as a Professional Engineer. Ralph’s contribution to the profession and to the region will live on for many years to come. Rest in peace dear friend.
Ralph and I were fraternity brothers (Lambda Chi Alpha) at the University of Arkansas. We pledged together in the spring of 1966. I will always remember Ralph as a great guy and a pleasure to be around. My thoughts and prayers go out to Ralph’s family during this difficult time.
With sincere sympathy. Ralph was always an outstanding guy and liked by all. May your sweet precious memories be of comfort as you go forward. God’s comfort to your family during this most difficult time.
Rita Cranford Atkinson
LRCH Class of ’65
I am just so very sorry, Carolyn. My heart and my prayers are with you.
I will Miss Ralph greatly. I was privileged to enjoy many long lunches where we solved the problems of the world.Ralph was a wonderful friend who helped me through some tough times in my life . I was blessed to have him as a loyal friend and client for many years.I will miss you. GOD BLESS
I was very saddened to hear the news of Ralph’s passing. He was a mentor to me and a generous soul. He was always one of the first at the office to sign up to buy Girl scout cookies. He will be missed.