Kimball M. Barnes ’64

Kim died Jan. 23, 2016, of lung cancer in Traverse City, Mich.

He came to Princeton from the University School in Cleveland, where he was class president, editor of the school newspaper, and on the wrestling team. His was a Princeton family — including his father and two uncles earlier and a brother following him.

Kim majored in English, writing his thesis, “The Imagery and Techniques of Emily Dickinson,” under Professor Jeremiah Finch. While at Princeton he met Margaret Mansfield through his sister, who was a fellow student at Vassar. They married in 1964 and had two children.

Kim earned a master of teaching degree from Johns Hopkins and a master of arts degree from Middlebury. He then taught English at the University School, the Nichols School in Buffalo, Moorestown Friends School, and the John Burroughs School in St. Louis. He was an engaging, dynamic, and insightful teacher of literature and composition to high school students. Kim later entered the book business, serving both as a wholesaler and manager at several bookstores.

In addition to his avid reading and motorcycle riding, Kim loved northern Michigan, having spent every summer since childhood sailing and water skiing Glen Lake. Nearing retirement, he and his second wife of 26 years, Kathryn Shelley-Barnes, moved to Traverse City, finding joy and solace in its natural surroundings.

The class extends its condolences to Kathryn; son Christopher; daughter Katherine; four granddaughters; and his extended family.