Barney graduated from Arlington High School in 1956, and Delhi University Tech School 1959. He worked for the State highway dept in Conn after graduation for a short time. He served his country in the Merchant Marine. He was the Lagrange town highway supervisor for six years and was also self employed as a contractor for many years. He was a life member of the LaGrange Fire Department and the Mid- County Rod and Gun Club. Barney was a great athlete in his day and very proud of the fact that he was inducted into the Dutchess County Slow-Pitch Hall of Fame in 1992. He also served as the vice-chairman of the Walkway Over The Hudson.