Morris David “Barney” Barnhill, 84, of Davenport, IA, passed away Thursday, February 17, 2022, at
Genesis East Medical Center in Davenport. Per his wishes, cremation will take place with a
Celebration of Life to be held from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., Friday, March 18, at Me & Billy in
downtown Davenport. Online condolences may be expressed at www.weertsfh.com
Barney was born December 25, 1937 to Lloyd and Lola Barnhill in Davenport. He was involved in
football and wrestling throughout his education from Central High School, and all before
graduating, he was the first 4-year letter winner at Davenport Central under Coach Jim Fox. He was
the State Freestyle champion in 1956. He furthered his education at the University of Iowa to
complete his teaching degree. While he attended Iowa, he was the wrestling teams co-captain in
1964, and a 2-time All American wrestler. He took his wrestling career further by becoming a
World Member in 1962 and finishing fourth at the Olympic trials in 1960. Shortly after his
wrestling streak, he was drafted into the U.S Army. Barney taught government and history at West
High School until 2001, where he also took his passion for wrestling into coaching for the varsity
wrestling team. During his 19 years of coaching, Barney’s team won four conference
championships, 11 second place conference finishes; and 5 district championships. He honorably
served as an Alderman, and was involved in countless organizations and programs for Davenport
for nearly 20 years. Barney married Sandra Franz on December 27th, 1960, at St. Paul Lutheran
Church in Davenport. They later on had their son Sean, in December of 1966.