In Memory of Barnaby "Barney" T. O'Malley (1948–2026)
Barnaby Thomas O'Malley, 77, of Granite Falls, hung up his tool belt for the last time on January 16, 2026. He passed away at home, surrounded by family and the faint, comforting smell of sawdust and WD-40.
Born in Chicago in 1948 to Patrick and Maureen O'Malley, Barney was a man who believed that anything could be fixed with a little patience, a lot of duct tape, and a confident grunt.
Barney spent 45 years as a Master Carpenter. His handiwork can be found in half the living rooms in the county, from custom bookshelves to wobbly decks that he swore were "settling." He was a history buff who could explain the strategy of the Battle of Gettysburg using salt shakers and ketchup packets at a diner table.
A man of simple pleasures, Barney loved:
Fishing at Lake Clearwater (where he famously caught the same boot twice in one summer).
The Chicago Bears (a relationship defined by loyalty and heartbreak).
Sneaking scraps of ham to the dog when he thought his wife wasn't looking.
He was known for his "Barney-isms," often advising his grandchildren to "measure twice, cut once, and if you mess it up, buy more wood and don't tell Grandma."
Barney joins his loved ones on the other side:
His parents, Patrick and Maureen.
His brother, Sean, with whom he is likely already arguing about whose turn it is to buy the next round.
He leaves behind a legacy of laughter and sturdy furniture:
His devoted wife of 54 years, Eleanor, who was the only person who could ever tell him what to do.
His sons, Michael (Jenna) and David (Tanya).
Five grandchildren: Jack, Sophie, Liam, Emma, and Noah, who will carry on his tradition of telling tall tales.
A Memorial Service will be held at The Rusty Anchor Lodge on Friday, January 23, at 4:00 PM. In true Barney fashion, it will be less of a funeral and more of a "Happy Hour with stories." The dress code is casual—flannels are encouraged, and ties are prohibited.
"I’m going to see a man about a dog. Keep the tools sharp and the beer cold."
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you fix something that’s broken in your house, or donate to the Granite Falls Trade School Scholarship Fund.