Bernard L Renfro

Barney was born in Elko, Nevada on May 18, 1924 to parents Lydia May Hazen Renfro and Jesse Millard Renfro. He is predeceased by his parents and siblings, Jesse Renfro Salis, Earl Renfro, Ruth Renfro Waltherf, Daisy Renfro Evans, Windfield Renfro, Robert Renfro, Horace Renfro, Carl Renfro, and Frank Renfro. Barney is the last of his siblings to pass.

Barney married Phyllis Marie Bixler, his bride of 67 years, on March 2, 1946. Barney and Phyllis lived in Oregon, California and Washington, before settling in NE Portland in 1957. They have six children: Barney Ralph Renfro, Robert Steven Renfro, Marie Ann Renfro Foster, Jerry Lee Renfro, Nancy Lynn Renfro Singleterry, and Kerry-Jo Renfro Brady. They have Sons-in-law, Harold Timothy Foster, Wayne Earl Singleterry and Kevin Minor Brady. They have daughters-in-law, Richland Walruff Renfro, Debra Smith Renfro. Barney and Phyllis have a total of 40 grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

After joining the Army in 1944, Barney was active in World War II as an ambulance driver. He arrived in England just prior to D-day, and also served during the battle at Normandy. Later in life, he was a member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars.

Barney spent his early years drilling wells, installing drainage systems and driving big-rig trucks and buses. He valued education and attended Portland State University.

In 1957 Barney began working in a “garage” industry which grew to be Precision Cast Parts Corporation. During his 30 year tenure, Barney led the engineering department to design the very first Titanium hip ball and sockets used in replacement surgery. He also designed and cast many parts for the Apollo Space vehicles and Boeing airplanes. Barney retired in 1987, and coordinated the Precision Retiree’s organization for many years.

Barney was an avid outdoorsman. He loved hunting, fishing and camping with his family. He loved to travel and spent time exploring Europe for six weeks soon after his retirement. Barney enjoyed visiting the Oregon Coast, buying fresh seafood and cooking on the beach.

Barney and Phyllis opened their home to many nieces, nephews and grandchildren over the years. All were welcome and provided with love and support during times of need.

Barney and Phyllis were active members at Crossroads Church until his illness required him to remain at home. They enjoyed watching Dr. Charles Stanley’s weekly televised messages each Sunday.

The Renfro family extends an invitation to anyone whom has been touched by the life of Barney Renfro as we celebrate his life. Services are planned for October 3, 2011 at Lincoln Memorial Park Cemetery, 11801 SE Mt. Scott Blvd, Portland, Oregon 97086 at 1:00 PM.

Arrangements under the direction of Lincoln Memorial Funeral Home, Portland, OR.