Michael J. Barnes, 57, of Des Moines, Iowa, formerly of Countryside, Illinois, passed away peacefully at his home on June 3, 2026, after a courageous battle with numerous health challenges.
Mike was born on June 3, 1969, in La Grange, Illinois, the son of Jimmy E. and JoAnne M. (Carmody) Barnes. On June 6, 2018, he married the love of his life, Michelle L. Maher, in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. Together they shared a deep love, unwavering devotion, and many cherished memories.
Mike dedicated much of his life to serving and protecting others through his distinguished law enforcement career. Beginning in 1996, he served with the Burr Ridge Police Department, where he rose to the rank of Sergeant. Throughout his career, Mike served as a Citizens Police Academy instructor, Field Training Officer, Evidence Technician, DARE Officer, and Firearms Instructor. His commitment to mentoring fellow officers and educating the community reflected his passion for public service.
Known affectionately by many as "Barnesy," Mike was also a driving force in founding the Illinois Chapter of Concerns of Police Survivors (C.O.P.S.) Critical Incident Memorial Team. Through this work, he responded to and assisted law enforcement agencies throughout Illinois following line-of-duty deaths, providing comfort, guidance, and support to grieving departments and families during their most difficult times. His compassion and dedication left a lasting impact on countless lives.
Mike will be remembered for his strength, sense of humor, loyalty, and unwavering commitment to family, friends, and fellow officers. He faced life's challenges with courage and determination and inspired those around him through his resilience.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Michelle Maher Barnes; his children, Corey (Kayla) and their daughter Jessie Barnes and Caitlyn Barnes; Joey Miller (Luke), Holly, Hadley, Lilah, Michael Nicholson III (Warin) Kenzie, Kennedy, Michael IV, Nicole Denin (Travis) Peyton and Sawyer and many extended family members, friends, law enforcement colleagues, and members of the Concerns of Police Survivors organization who will deeply miss him.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
A celebration of Mike's life will be held at a later date. Memorial contributions may be made in his honor to Concerns of Police Survivors (C.O.P.S.) or to a charity of the donor's choice.
Though his watch has ended, Mike's legacy of service, compassion, and dedication will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.
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RIP. Sending prayers to Michelle & her family.
My heart goes out to Mike's wife,family,friends. He was truly a kind sole. We grew up together. He lived around the corner from myself,family. He always said I was his big sister. Love ya kiddo. Hugs to all. Marcine Barnes
I'm so deeply sorry for your loss. Praying peace and comfort for all who love him. May he rest in peace, until you all meet again, with Jesus in the clouds.
My husband Jerry worked with Mike for many years at Burr Ridge and spoke of him often. My condolences to the family.
His service to the community, his fellow officers and ultimately his family is very impressive. What a wonderful tribute to Mike. RIP
R.I.P. Buddy
I worked with Mike with the FIAT major case task force when he was a detective for Burr Ridge Police Dept, he was a very good detective and was highly respected by his fellow law enforcement associates, rest in peace Mike.
Sending love, light and gentle memories
Michael it sure was an honor knowing you as a friend. I have known you throughout my childhood but as I began to volunteer my time at the Brookfield JC's Haunted House as a young teenager back in 1988, I began to get to know you on another level. Mike, you have always supported my decisions and were very instrumental in me becoming a police officer which now I have been for over 30+ years originally starting in Security / Public Safety back in 1994. Till we meet again, rest well my friend. You are now 10-42. Diz FPPD 101 / TCPD 359.