Adventure is calling and I must go. On June 11, 2023, at the age of 65, Russ Allen Barnes passed from this life to begin his next grand adventure. Born to John and Kathy Barnes, Russ was a Pryor, OK native and a proud member of the Cherokee Tribe of Oklahoma. Russ honored his Native American heritage by being an honorable steward of the land and an avid adventurer. Strode Funeral Home and Cremation is in charge of the arrangements.

Russ graduated from Oklahoma State University with a degree in Wildlife Ecology and worked for a time as a Game Warden. He then completed a full career as an Energy Service Technician with Central Rural Electric Cooperative until he retired after 22 years.


Russ never turned down a chance to go exploring. From cross country road trips to fly-fishing and camping adventures, and even spending a few seasons as a self-proclaimed ski bum in Colorado, Russ loved discovering the great outdoors and sharing his adventures with others. He always had a smile on his face and a story to tell.


Russ leaves to cherish his memory, his Beloved, Cathy Dickens of Stillwater. Her daughters Kari Regan and husband Duke of Edmond, Sada Kahn and husband Steve of Owasso, Tanya Kesner and her husband John of Sands Springs, and grandchildren, Kate, Kaiden, Reina, Sophia, Asa, and Lila, and nieces and nephews. Russ also leaves his Aunt Mary Wickliffe of Pryor, numerous cousins, lifelong friends, and his faithful group of early morning coffee drinkers at Granny's Kitchen.


At Russ's request, no formal services will be held. In lieu of flowers, please celebrate Russ's life by planting a tree or contributing to a conservation fund in his honor. An online obituary may be viewed, and condolences left for the family, at www.StrodeFH.com .