Gerald Barney

SWANTON - Gerald E. Barney, age 91, passed away on Tuesday, April 23, 2024 at the Northwestern Medical Center in St. Albans.

He was born on August 17, 1932 in St. Albans to the late Ward & Mable (Morse) Barney.

Gerald's journey was one of remarkable fortitude and relentless ambition. From humble beginnings, he embarked on a path of diligence and determination, earning a high school diploma, and serving in the U.S. Navy before becoming a skilled electrician. He joined the Vermont National Guard at the age of 15, embellishing his age at the time, and began serving active duty at the age of 18 as a Sargent. He later transferred to the U.S. Navy as a Seabee. He worked for local farms as a young man, later for Prat & Whitney, the railroad, and finally for IBM where he retired after many years of service. His tireless endeavors exemplified a steadfast commitment to excellence that inspired all who knew him.

As we honor his memory, we recall Gerald's passion for running. He started running at the age of 43 and began racing at the age of 46. He was well known throughout the GMAA (Green Mountain Athletic Association) for his accomplishments, tracing over 60,000 miles and conquering over 650 races, including 27 full marathons, 57 half marathons, 10 Mt. Washington Road Races, and 49 snowshoe races. He achieved 1st place for his age group an astonishing 438 times, including 9 full marathons, 44 half marathons, 8 Mt. Washington Road Races, and 49 snowshoe races. He was inducted into the New England 65+ Runners Club hall of fame, and received honorable mention in Running Times magazine for the top 65-69 year old runners in the United States.

His competitive spirit extended to the horseshoe pits where he showcased his skill, traveling across New England to compete. A craftsman by heart, his woodworking creations stand as testaments to his artistry and precision. In all aspects of his life, Gerald approached each endeavor with unwavering commitment and an indomitable spirit.

He is survived by his children, Joseph Barney of St. Albans, Sally Krupp and her husband Robert of Swanton, and Kelly Heinlein and her husband John of Highgate; grandchildren, Matthew Aucoin and his wife Courtney, Emily Aucoin and her fiancé Andrea LaSalle, Aubree Bovat and her husband James Bodaky, Ashley Bovat, Jeremy Heinlein and his wife Kristine, Katherine Quinlan, Kaili Krupp and fiancé Ryan Thibault, and Bobby Krupp; great grandchildren, Nya Aucoin and her significant other Isaac LeBlanc, Evelyn Krupp Gordon, Kaidon King, Zander King, Maverick Krupp, Blake Heinlein, Jaxon Quinlan, Jessa Quinlan, Ash Thibault, and Zane Thibault; life-long friends, Charlie & Dina Remillard and several nieces & nephews. In addition to his parents, Gerald was predeceased by his wife, Ida Rae (Mulheron) Barney; their son, Patrick Barney; a granddaughter, Sara Rae Aucoin; a son-in-law, Mark Aucoin; his sisters, Phyllis Barney Byrd and her husband Pete Robstoy, Edith Barney Thomas and her husband Elwood "Tommy", and Shirley Barney Williams and her husband Charles; and his siblings-in-law, Ezra "Zing" Mulheron and his wife Lorraine, Anthony "Ralph" Mulheron and his wife Mona, Arthur Mulheron and his wife Hazel, Hazel Allen and her husband William, Harriet Rocheleau and her husband George, and Mildred Brennan and her husband Gilbert.

Gerald's family would like to thank his caregivers Pat, Vicky, Darlene, and Heba for the care they provided so he was able to stay in his home.

Friends & family are invited to Gerald's life celebration to include a Mass of Christian Burial on Wednesday, May 8, 2024 at 11:00 AM at the Church of Nativity, 65 Canada Street, Swanton, VT. Interment with military honors will follow in Riverside Cemetery in Swanton.

For those who wish, contributions in Gerald's memory may be made to Franklin County Animal Rescue, 30 Sunset Meadows, St. Albans, VT 05478.

Condolences, photos and favorite memories may be shared through www.gossfs.com