Obituary for William "Barney" Durbin

It is with heavy hearts that we share news of the passing of William Roger Durbin, known as Barney, on November 20, 2025. He was born December 9, 1954 in Garden City, Kansas.

Barney grew up in Westminster, Colorado and was a lifelong athlete, excelling and lettering in gymnastics at Westminster High School. He received his undergraduate degree from the University of Northern Colorado and his MBA from the University of Arizona.

Barney met the love of his life, Patty, at the UofA, and they married on December 27, 1980.They built a life of faith, love, and family in Oro Valley, Arizona. They are devoted parents to Christina, Joseph, and Jana, and proud grandparents to Thomas William. Barney is survived by two sisters and four nephews and their families. He is predeceased by his parents, Daniel and Virginia Durbin as well as his two brothers.

Barney was a hardworking home builder and built stunning custom homes in the Tucson
community, taking pride in working outdoors in the desert sun.

Barney will be greatly missed by his family and friends for his sense of humor and wit, his
wisdom and great advice, and his ability to see the beauty in ordinary things. A family man
through and through, Barney most enjoyed spending time with his sweetheart, Patty, his kids,
and his dogs. Barney loved hunting in the desert, fishing in Mexico, playing poker with his
buddies, stargazing, and relaxing at the family cabin in Payson. We will think of him most when playing his favorite music, eating seafood, or viewing beautiful sunsets.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the Newman Center Sustaining Board at the
University of Arizona or St. Mark Capital Campaign for the new community building.

A celebration of life will be held at St. Mark Catholic Church, Oro Valley, AZ on December 18, 2025. There will be a rosary recited at 10:30 AM followed by the Mass at 11:00 AM. The funeral will be livestreamed for family and friends who are unable to attend. 

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