Donald R. Barnum's Obituary
Donald R. Barnum, aka Barn, Bunga, Chief, Pappy, retired Chief of Police for the City of St Clair passed away Friday morning December 11, 2020 after a two- month battle with COVID-19. He was 67.
Barn was born December 23, 1952 in St. Clair, MI to Glenn and Gayle Barnum. He graduated from St. Clair High School Class of 1971, attended the Macomb Police Academy, and later graduated from U of M. He served the community of St. Clair for 30+ years with the Police Department, starting as a cadet and advancing through the ranks to become Chief of Police.
He was the founder of and involved with countless youth organizations and programs throughout his career, including D.A.R.E, CRC, Friends of the St. Clair Library, Shop with a Cop, Student Police Academy, Children’s Book Club, and numerous others.
He was the past president of the St. Clair Rotary Club, a season ticket holder and die-hard U of M football fan. He was a history buff, a criminal justice educator at SC4, and substitute teacher for East China School District and St. Mary’s Catholic School. He also participated in the D.A.R.E Hockey Team, ran marathons, went fishing with his children, restored classic license plates, and will be especially remembered for his keen wit and sense of humor.
His favorite friendly reminder was to not be afraid to be a goofball and a little bit obnoxious for your own sake. “You have to learn how to make yourself laugh if you ever expect to keep yourself sane.”
Barn is survived by his children Brooke (James) Ahles, Aaron Barnum, Caitlin Barnum (Bradley McNinch) ; his siblings Michael (Maria) Barnum, Randy (Linda) Barnum, Brook Barnum, Betsy Edwards and Nancy (Ken) Knox. He was preceded in death by his parents and brother-in-law Roger Edwards.
A memorial gathering of friends and family will be held Saturday, December 19, 2020 from 2pm-8pm at Young Funeral Home, China Twp.
Memorials are suggested to Wishes of the Family, Grosse Pointe Animal Adoption Agency or Children of Fallen Police Officers.
Due to COVID-19 guidelines, 15 people will be allowed in the funeral home at a time. For the safety and comfort of others, guests entering the funeral home must wear a mask. To leave a message of comfort visit www.youngcolonial.com
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