Gerald Dean Barney was born on March 11, 1944, in Rhiederland Township, Chippewa County, Minnesota, the son of Christian and Hattie (Van Heuvelen) Barney. He was baptized and confirmed at the Bethany Reformed Church and grew up in Clara City. He graduated from Clara City High School in 1962, attended Willmar Community College where he was all conference in basketball and baseball. He graduated from Moorhead State University in 1967 with a degree in Physical Education and Health and Driver’s Education. He received his Junior High Science degree from St. Cloud State University.
On July 22, 1973, Gerald was united in marriage to Donna Jasperson. They shared 9 years of marriage. He was a teacher for 30 years, teaching at Franklin public schools in Franklin, Appleton public schools in Appleton, and for Lac Qui Parle Valley High School, Madison. During his teaching tenure, was head basketball coach for 10 years, assistant basketball coach for 2 years, head baseball coach for 4 years, Junior High football coach for 4 years, and a Driver’s Education instructor for 48 years. He administered GED examinations at the Appleton Correctional Facility for 10 years. He enjoyed playing golf, baseball, basketball, and playing with his grandchildren.
Jerry is survived by his daughter Leah (Ryan) Frantzen of Woodbury; his son, Jeffrey Barney of St. Paul; grandchildren Langley and Mirren; Special friend Audrey Forrette of Appleton; brothers Delbert (Jean) Barney of Palm Desert, California, Harlen “Lee” (Norma) Barney of Oregon City, Oregon, Stanley (Donna) Barney of Clara City; and a sister Clarice (Harley) Ammermann of Clara City. He is preceded in death by his wife Donna, his parents Chris and Hattie, and brothers Marvin and James. Zniewski Funeral Home Vaala Chapel in Appleton is assisting the family with the arrangements. www.zniewskifuneralhome.com