Bernard “Barney” J. Quinn, 87

July 14, 2013

Bernard (Barney) Jerome Quinn went home to be with the Lord on July 14, 2013 at Hospice & Community Care in Mount Joy, PA. Barney was born on July 12, 1926. He was the son of the late Charles and Catherine Quinn of Bronx, N.Y., both Irish immigrants from County Sligo and County Monaghan, Ireland.
Barney was a devout Roman Catholic. Barney began his relationship with the Lord by attending Catholic grammar school(s) in New York City, volunteering his time as a page boy and altar boy at St. Patrick’s Cathedral in New York City for much his youth. He continued his devotion to the church via Knights of Columbus and earned his 4th Degree Knight. He was an active member of St. Leo the Great Catholic Church.
Barney served the U.S. Navy from 1944-1953. Barney was a medical corpsman and enjoyed sharing his stories of when he was “on deck!” to family and friends. Barney served in during WWII (’44-’46), and was recalled for the Korean War (’51-’53). Also, he worked as a reservist after his tours.
After returning home from the Navy, Barney began his career with the NYPD as a police officer and soon a member of the Emergency Services squad. His career had many highlights including: delivering babies (some given the name “Barney”), climbing bridges, de-escalation skills on rooftops, special assignment police team for The Beatles and the Pope Paul 6th, and of course catching criminals; these were some of his favorite stories to share from his NYPD days.
Following his run with the NYPD, Barney worked for Entenmann’s Bakery in Miami, FL as a Security Director for nearly a decade. After retiring from Entenmann’s, he relocated to Vero Beach, FL and worked as an Activities Director. Barney enjoyed working with people. Aside from work, church, music, and family, Barney made delicious meals. He was known for his Irish Soda bread, his fluffy pancakes, and being the most skilled meat carver in the house.
Barney was an incredibly talented man in many ways. He could play many instruments by ear with mastery. These skills went noticed as he was one of the 12 original members of the NYPD Pipe and Drum Emerald Society Police Band. Barney served as a Bandmaster and a bagpiper. Other instruments he can play with proficiency include: Irish chanter, tin whistle, accordion, organ, drums, piano, and he had perfect pitch as a singer.
Barney is survived by his three children: James Quinn, husband of Joyce Manzo; Charles (Chuck) Quinn, husband of Susan; Catherine Laughner, wife of David Laughner. Barney has four grandchildren: Chad Quinn, husband of Rachel Quinn; Elizabeth Quinn, David Laughner Jr., and Alyssa Laughner. One great-grandchild, Rileigh Quinn, daughter of Chad and Rachel Quinn. Barney is preceded in death by his wife of 63 years, Mary Quinn, and his sister, Sister Catherine Quinn of Staten Island, N.Y.
Services and burial will be private at the convenience of the family.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to: Hospice & Community Care, 4075 Old Harrisburg Pike, Mount Joy, PA 17522.