Bernard "Barney" Papp

Bernard “Barney” Papp, of Woodstock, IL passed away peacefully at home on Sunday, February 9, 2025.

Barney grew up in New Jersey, son of Margaret Masterson and William Papp. Barney received his bachelor’s degree from the University of New Mexico and his Juris Doctorate from Loyola University of Chicago Law School.

Barney moved to Harvard in 1978 and practiced in McHenry County for his entire legal career. Barney was a member of the Board of Governors of the McHenry County Bar Association, a past President, and a member of the Lawyer-Broker Accord Committee. Barney’s legal acumen was widely renowned and respected throughout the legal community.

Barney was a talented musician with a love for music. He played guitar in local band PB&J, and enjoyed playing at open mic nights, and jam sessions with many friends. He repaired, restored, and built many guitars throughout his lifetime, and enjoyed talking music with anyone would listen.

He is survived by his brother William (Sarah) Masterson; his daughters Katherine (Dylan) Hahn, Kelley (Alexander) Combs; his grandson Bennett, and many friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Margaret Masterson and William Papp, and his brother, Robert Papp.

An open house celebration of life will be from 11:00am until 3:00pm on Saturday, March 1, 2025, at Rush Creek Distillery, 1501 W. Diggins St., Harvard, IL 60033.