Dewey David Barnes, 74, passed away peacefully on July 8, 2026, at OSF St. Anthony Medical Center, in Rockford, IL.

He was born on October 26, 1951, in Forrest City, Arkansas. The son of Shank David Barnes and Ella Mae (Staggs). Dewey was married to Jean Baker in 1972 and was the proud father of 4 children.

When Dewey was just 15 years old, he joined the Federal Job Corps, where they sent him out West, Arizona, to build national parks.  He learned most of the tricks of his trade from them.

Dewey accomplished a lot in life but was most notified for his master mechanic position at Ideal Industries, for 38 years.

He was part of many different organizations. He was the former president of the Rock River Riders, he was an officer of the DeKalb Co. Sheriff's Auxiliary and also was an Illinois State Hunter Safety Instructor for over 35 years.

Dewey is survived by his loving wife of 54 years, Jean Barnes; 3 children, Dewey Barnes Jr. (Cheryl Barnes), Jason Barnes (Kimberly Barnes), and Donna Mae Engh (Brandon Engh); 8 grandchildren: Ehlana (Chris) Worley, Patience (Anthony) Sarfehjoo, Kaitlin (Ian) Kerr, Keegan O'Donnell, Johnathan Engh, Conner (Maria) O'Donnell, Cole Barnes, and Evan Barnes; 3 great- grandchildren; brother, Harold Barnes; 2 sisters, June Hill and Gail Howard; along with many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; one son, Kit Lee Barnes; and one brother Phillip Barnes.

Dewey's visitation will be held from 10:00 AM – 12:00 Noon on Thursday, July 16th, at Butala Funeral Homes, 1405 DeKalb Ave., Sycamore, IL 60178.   A service will begin at 12:00 Noon with a burial to follow at Fairview Park Cemetery, in DeKalb, IL.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to the International Hunter Education Association (IHEA-USA) https://www.ihea-usa.org/donate/ in Dewey's name.

To sign the online guestbook or to share a special memory, please visit www.ButalaFuneralHomes.com