James "Bud" Barnes

James Bud Barnes approached everything with a fun-loving attitude and energy that anyone near him couldnt help but catch. He was deeply committed to his family and friends and found true happiness in their presence. James Charlie Barnes III was born on the cold Michigan day of February 4, 1973, to proud parents, Frances (Wilson) and James C. Barnes II. He was born and raised in Muskegon, Michigan, along with his sister, Kimberly, who adored her big brother. She was the one who gave him the nickname Bud since she couldnt get the word brother out, and it just seemed to stick with James as he grew up. Although, he knew when someone was mad at him, because then they called him Jimmy. Bud received his education in the Muskegon Public Schools, though left after the ninth grade. With ADD, he felt school just wasnt the place for him. Bud was always so full of energy and going somewhere fast. Fun was his middle name and being a big kid at heart, he knew how to amuse himself. However, Bud was known to do things to the extreme! He was a video game enthusiast, enjoyed music of all genres and loved to drive anywhere at anytime. And whenever he entered a room, one could hear his favorite greeting Whats up Dawg? Above all, though, Bud was a devoted companion, great father, loving son, brother and uncle, and loyal best friend. He filled every day with energy, life and love, and happily shared it with everyone around him. He will be dearly missed. James Charlie Barnes III of Muskegon, Michigan, died on Wednesday, July 11, 2007. He leaves behind his love and companion of almost 11 years, Traci LaFrance; his children: Josh, Brittney, Devin, Alea, James and Selena; his mother, Fran; his niece, Destiny, and nephew, Gage; and his best friend since he was 5 years old, Tim Morris. A memorial service will be held on Monday, July 16, at 11 a.m. at the Calvary Church in Fruitport. Friends and relatives may visit with Buds family an hour before the service at the church. The family asks that in lieu of flowers memorial donations be made in Buds name to assist with funeral expenses. Please visit www.lifestorynet.com where you may share a memory of Bud or sign his online guest book.