LAKE HAVASU CITY, Ariz. — The Lake Havasu Unified School District is deeply saddened by the passing of Coach Lee Barnes, a pioneering educator, coach, and community leader whose impact on generations of students will never be forgotten.
Coach Barnes holds a unique and historic place in the story of Lake Havasu High School. During the 1969-1970 school year, when Lake Havasu High School first opened its doors, Coach Barnes established the school’s football program and led the inaugural football team to an undefeated 7-0 season. This remarkable achievement came despite many of the players having never participated in organized high school football before.
Under Coach Barnes’ leadership, the team ran a simplified Wing-T offense and played its home games on a sod farm field located in what was then known as Grand Island, originally called Pittsburg Point, as the school had not yet built a football stadium. In a testament to the excitement surrounding the young program, Lake Havasu founder Robert McCulloch even flew the team to Phoenix for one of its games.
Coach Barnes dedicated more than two decades to Lake Havasu High School as a respected mathematics teacher while continuing to build a football program that would become a source of pride for our community. When he retired from coaching in 1990, he had accumulated 60 career victories and had left an enduring legacy of excellence, discipline, and mentorship.
Beyond the wins and accomplishments, Coach Barnes invested in the lives of countless students, helping shape young men and women both in the classroom and on the field. His influence extended far beyond athletics, inspiring generations through his commitment to education, character, and community.
On behalf of the Lake Havasu Unified School District Governing Board, administration, staff, students, and families, we extend our deepest condolences to Coach Barnes’ family, friends, former players, and all who were blessed to know him.
Coach Lee Barnes helped lay the foundation for Lake Havasu High School athletics and contributed significantly to the culture and traditions that continue to define our school today. His legacy will forever be woven into the history of Lake Havasu Unified School District.
Coach Barnes was more than a coach and teacher. He was a builder of young people, a builder of programs, and a builder of community. His impact on Lake Havasu High School will be felt for generations to come. We are grateful for his service, his leadership, and the example he set for all.
David Rose
Governing Board President
Lake Havasu Unified School District
