Hall of Fame
Joseph Barnes ‘49 had to take three buses to and from school but still found time to participate in school activities. In his senior year, he had a significant part in the CC production of the musical “Anything Goes”. Upon graduation, Joe Barnes entered the St. Basil’s Novitiate at St. Michael’s College. He graduated from the University of Toronto in 1954 and returned to St. Basil’s Seminary to finish his priestly studies. He was ordained on June 28, 1959.
In 1960 Fr. Joseph Barnes C.S.B. was appointed to Catholic Central High School where he spent the rest of his life enthusiastically teaching Latin and English. He also coached, supervised the cafeteria, fixed lockers, was Moderator of the Dad’s Club, and helped with the band. Eventually, Fr. Joe took up photography as a hobby and became so proficient that school publications relied on his work. Fr. Joe was a true team player.
For seven (7) years as Athletic Director (AD), Fr. Barnes was responsible for organizing all aspects of the athletic programs at CC. He worked hard and usually spent his lunchtime washing uniforms and caring for equipment. All the while, Fr. Barnes continued to have teaching and priestly responsibilities. Fr. Joe’s leadership, work ethic, and passion for “Educational Athletics” made him highly respected in the CC community and the Catholic League. Fr. Barnes had an engaging manner. He loved to be with people. His friendly and personable demeanor made him popular with the CC students.
He was Superior of the local Basilian community from 1967 to 1970.
Fr. Barnes’ family is a legacy family at CC. His brother Robert ‘56, his brother-in-law Ron Williams ‘50, nephews Dr. Robert Barnes ‘78, Denny Barnes ‘79, Tom Moreau ‘74, Bob Moreau ‘75, Joe Moreau ‘82, Jimmy Moreau ‘84, John Williams ‘80, Mike Williams ‘85 and Tim Williams ‘93 are CC graduates. Fr. Barnes C.S.B. died of a heart attack on September 28, 1974. His death was a shock and a great loss to the Basilian and CC communities, his family, and the CC students who lost an excellent teacher, friend, and a man of God. [Dictionary of Basilian Biography, Toronto, Platt 2005]
When you saw Fr. Barnes, he usually smiled and carried his camera. He lived the charisms of “Goodness Discipline and Knowledge” and truly dedicated his life to the Lord and the students of Catholic Central.
