I was shocked to learn that Mr. Kenny Barrett had passed away this morning. my heart is broken. Rest in peace, Kenny; you will be remembered fondly by everyone. Please accept our deepest condolences as we share the news of the passing of Kenneth (Butch) James Barrett, a husband and father who resided at 27 Margaret Street in Saint John. He passed away on Wednesday, June 13, 2007, at the Saint John Regional Hospital. The late William Barrett and Florence Barrett welcomed their son Ken into the world in Saint John.
Butch began his career at the Saint John Sugary Refinery when he was only 14 years old. He worked there for 47 years before retiring in 1991, having provided outstanding service. Over the course of his 47 years, he served as the President of the Credit Union for the Refinery and organized a multitude of family activities for his sweet refinery family. His tenure at the refinery came to an end when he was promoted to the position of Foreman of the Maintenance Department of Lantic Sugar.
Connie (Gilliland) Barrett, his devoted wife and best friend of almost 58 years, is the only person who will remember him after his passing. In addition to spending time in the Cambridge Narrows at his trailer, Butch was quite enthusiastic about his affection for his grandchildren, KC, the family dog, and spending time with his family. Butch was a man who was adored by everyone who knew him, and his exceptional storytelling talent endeared him to everyone. Over the course of more than 25 years, he also served as a member of the Luxor Shrine Temple and the Shrine Marching Band in addition to being a member of the Masonic Lodge.
In addition to his wife, he is survived by his three sons, Frederick (Peggy) of Hampton, Steven James, and Gary (Margo), as well as his daughter, Cathy Barrett Kay, who was the second lady of his life. There are nine amazing grandchildren that Ken and Connie have, and they all affectionately refer to him as Papa. These grandchildren are as follows: Troy, Robbie, Adam, Amy, Andrew, Meredith, Aaron, April, and Matthew’s names. After a long and fruitful life, Papa was able to witness the birth of three stunning great grandchildren: Keegan, Keira, and Olivia.
His brother William (Buddy) Barrett of West Saint John, his lifelong best friend and brother-in-law Malcolm Dennison, and his sister-in-law Norma Gilliland are among those who are left behind after Butch’s passing at this time.
Two of his sisters, Betty Whitaker and Ruth Martin, passed away before he did. In addition to extending their sincere gratitude to the physicians and nurses who provide compassionate care at Saint John Regional Hospital, the family would also like to extend their gratitude to everyone who works in palliative care.
Brenan’s Select Community Funeral Home, located at 111 Paradise Row in Saint John, will be the location of the visitation taking place on Thursday from 2:00 to 4:00 and from 7:00 to 9:00 pm. The funeral home will be the location of a Masonic service that will take place on Thursday at 6:30 p.m.
An event commemorating Ken’s life will take place on Friday morning, June 15, 2007, at 10:30 am, and will be held in the chapel of Brenan’s Funeral Home. A reception will immediately follow the event. The burial will be a private family affair. It would be very appreciated if memorial contributions could be sent to either the Heart and Stroke Foundation of New Brunswick or the Canadian Cancer Society.
