Clare E. Barnes, 96, of Moore Twp., passed away peacefully while surrounded by his loving family on Thursday, January 15, 2026 at his residence. He was the beloved husband of the late Patricia Barnes (Patterson) to whom he was married to for 58 years before her passing in 2013. Born in Tuscola Township, MI, Clare was a son of the late Arthur and Fay Barnes (Miller).

Clare was a distinguished physicist whose career reflected both intellectual rigor and a deep sense of service. He spent a significant portion of his professional life at Bell Laboratories, where his work contributed to numerous patents and advancements during a remarkable era of innovation. His colleagues knew him as a man of exceptional insight, clarity, and precision-qualities that defined both his professional and personal life. As those closest to him often remarked with admiration and affection, he was usually right.

In addition to his scientific achievements, Clare served his country in the United States Air Force. He also dedicated time to volunteer work at The Caring Place - Allentown, offering compassion and support to others beyond the laboratory.

His curiosity extended far beyond his work. An avid traveler, he explored the world with enthusiasm and purpose, visiting places such as Alaska, China, and Israel. Notably, he volunteered at a kibbutz in Israel, an experience that reflected his belief in community, shared responsibility, and meaningful contribution. At home, he found great joy in square dancing, woodworking, and gardening-pursuits that mirrored his appreciation for structure, craftsmanship, and growth. Above all, he cherished time spent with his children and grandchildren, taking immense pride in their lives and accomplishments. His legacy lives on not only through his professional contributions, but through the values he instilled: intellectual curiosity, integrity, service, and family.

He will be remembered as a compassionate, confident and generous man whose impact was felt deeply by his family, colleagues, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.

He will be lovingly remembered by his children: Debra Horvath (Joseph) of Wind Gap, Karen Hutwelker (Jan) of Sellersville, Jay Barnes (Patricia) of Bloomsburg, Brian Barnes of Moore Twp., and Stacey Mickles (Rudolph) of Lawnside, NJ; grandchildren: Jane, Clare, Joseph, Jr., Kevin, Sarah, Chris, Steve, Eric, Rebecca, Jacob, Nathan, Brittany, Marissa, Rachel, Ivanna, Victoria and 18 great-grandchildren; nieces and nephews. Clare is predeceased by a son: Keith Barnes; brothers: Alden Barnes, Neil Barnes, Vern Barnes

A Memorial Service will be held at 3:00 PM on Saturday, January 24, 2026, in the GEORGE G. BENSING FUNERAL HOME, INC. - 2165 Community Drive -Bath, Pennsylvania 18014. Friends and Relatives are invited to a visitation with family on Saturday from 2:00 PM until the time of the service. Online expressions of sympathy may be recorded at: bensingfuneralhome.net.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be offered to The Caring Place Youth Development Center - 931 Hamilton St, Allentown, PA 18101. https://www.thecaringplace.org/