Cecil Barnes, 79, Boone, Iowa
BOONE, Iowa—Cecil Raymond Barnes, age 79, of Boone, Iowa passed with family near on June 6, 2026. A visitation will be held on Monday, June 15, 2026, from 4:00pm to 6:00pm at Schroeder-Reimers Memorial Chapel in Boone, Iowa.
Cecil was Born on August 29, 1946, to Fern Bielfeldt and Jim Diggins in Boone, Iowa. He attended Boone High School and later worked for Walters Sanitary Service. At around the age of 25 he had an accident while at work which led to the amputation of both legs from the knee down. After this accident his good friend, Howard VanCannon welcomed him into his home to live with his family. In the 80s he lost vision in both eyes. While these are terrible misfortunes, he never let it stop him from having fun.
Cecil was known for his quick wit, love for cars, stubbornness, and perfectly timed one-liners. He had a way of turning casual everyday moments into stories that will be told for years. His simple joys were the best kind: a bowl of Lays BBQ chips in hand, an ice-cold Coca-Cola nearby, and a country song playing while he relaxed on the front porch. Those were his perfect moments. He could be seen rough housing with the kids & pets, rocking little ones, calling in birthdays and sale items to KWBG Radio (where he was known as “The Godfather of Tradio”), and making light of his impairments. He was also an avid listener and supporter of Iowa State sports, especially woman’s basketball. There wasn’t much that held him back. He loved riding sleds in the snow with the kids, going down blow-up water slides, getting a ride on anything with a motor and taking his turn Wii bowling.
He was preceded in death by his mother Fern Bielfeldt, step-father Jim Barnes, father Jim Diggins, Aunt Pearl Kiddie, Howard VanCannon and many other close friends and family. Along with his canine companions; Lady, Sweet Pea, & Khloe.
He is survived by many chosen family members; Faye (VanCannon) Prange, Tim (Trista) VanCannon, Jonathan VanCannon, Shelby VanCannon (Ty Mechura), Susan VanCannon, Sean (Vanessa) VanCannon & kids Daphne, Eleanor, Margrit, & Howard, Jacob Pinta, Becky (Travis) Dakin, Ben & Carlos Dakin.
Cecil leaves behind a legacy of laughter, mischief, and unforgettable memories. We’ll miss his friendship, funny jokes, and old stories the most.
In his honor, take the long way home, turn up your favorite country song, share a Coke with someone you love, and don’t forget to laugh—especially when you need it the most.
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