March 3, 1925 - April 30, 2018

Eugene F. Barrett, age 93, of Minong, WI passed away on Monday, April 30, 2018 at Indianhead Medical Center in Shell Lake, WI. 

Eugene Frank Barrett was born March 3, 1925 in Lewistown, MT the son of Frank and Emma (Rosapal) Barrett.  When Eugene was a small child his family moved to Eau Claire, WI where he was raised and attended school.  Immediately after his high school graduation Gene joined the U.S. Army on June 12, 1943 and served overseas during World War II.  He earned the World War II Victory Medal, Two Overseas Bars, American Campaign Medal, European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign Medal and the Good Conduct Medal.  He was honorably discharged on March 10, 1946 and returned to Eau Claire.   In August of 1950, Gene met Donna Boehmke and they married in October, which began a marriage that lasted over 60 years.  Gene began a career as a truck driver for M&W Trucking in Eau Claire.  Gene and Donna had a cabin in Minong for many years and in 1970 they purchased the K-I Club tavern in Minong, WI, running a successful business until the early 1990’s when he sold the business to his son.  He was very active in the community and served on the Washburn County Board and the Minong Town Board and was chairman for both at different times during his political career.  Gene was passionate in his political beliefs which earned him the nickname “the Governor” by many.  He was a member of the American Legion, 40 & 8 and Lions Club.  He enjoyed fishing, picking berries, playing cribbage and raising chickens and turkeys.  Gene was always willing to help anyone that needed a hand and have “1” with friends.    

Gene is survived by his four sons, David (Debbie) of Eau Claire, Kenneth (Patricia), Timothy, Jay (Debbie), all of Minong, WI; five grandchildren, Melissa, Michael, Jessica, Jaysen and Jayden; nine great grandchildren; one brother, Wallace (Gladys) Barrett of Eau Claire; many nieces and nephews; and special friends, Artie and Bella.

He was preceded in death by his parents; step mom, Edith “Dolly”; wife, Donna; and granddaughter, DeAnna Barrett.

A celebration of Gene’s life will be held from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, May 19th at the Minong Town Hall, W7095 Nancy Lake Road, with military honors at 11:00 a.m. and a light lunch to follow.

Last Update: Dec 16, 2018 5:45 pm CST