With deep sorrow and heavy hearts, the family of Donald P. Barrett, age 68, of Avoca, Wisconsin, announces his passing on Tuesday, July 29, 2025, at St. Mary’s Hospital in Madison. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, Don departed this world surrounded by the love of his family and the prayers of those who cherished him.
Born on March 15, 1957, in Dodgeville, Wisconsin, Donald was the eldest son of the late Paul and Margaret (Reynolds) Barrett. He grew up in the rolling countryside of Iowa County, where he developed a deep connection to nature, a strong work ethic, and a lifelong appreciation for family and community. Donald graduated from Riverdale High School in 1975 and later went on to attend Southwest Wisconsin Technical College, where he pursued studies in mechanics and agriculture—fields that would shape much of his professional life.
For over 35 years, Don worked as a skilled agricultural technician and later as a field manager for a local farming cooperative. He was known throughout the region for his mechanical know-how, his unwavering reliability, and his honest, no-nonsense approach to both work and life. There was nothing Don couldn’t fix, and he was always the first to lend a hand to a neighbor in need—whether it was a broken tractor, a flooded basement, or a storm-damaged barn.
In 1981, Donald married the love of his life, Renee (Jenkins) Barrett, at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Avoca. Together, they built a warm and welcoming home filled with laughter, music, home-cooked meals, and the love of their three children. Don was a devoted and protective father who never missed a game, recital, or milestone. He instilled in his children the same values that defined his own life: integrity, humility, and a deep respect for the land and for others.
Don’s greatest joy came in recent years when he embraced his role as a grandfather. His face lit up whenever his grandchildren ran into the room, and he could often be found taking them fishing at his favorite spot on the Wisconsin River, teaching them how to build a campfire, or telling stories from “the good old days.” To them, he was “Grandpa Don”—a quiet hero and steadfast presence.
A man of few words but deep convictions, Donald found peace and purpose in the simple things: a morning walk with his dog, a well-earned glass of iced tea after mowing the lawn, or a drive through the backroads of the Driftless Area with classic country on the radio. He was a longtime member of the Avoca Volunteer Fire Department and served for many years on the local school board, where he advocated for rural education and community development.
Donald is survived by his loving wife of 44 years, Renee Barrett; his three children: Matthew (Lauren) Barrett of La Crosse, Emily (Ben) Carson of Baraboo, and Joshua Barrett of Avoca; his five grandchildren: Ella, Jackson, Miles, Nora, and Lucy; his brother Steven (Karla) Barrett of Spring Green; his sister Judy (Michael) Phelps of Muscoda; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents and his younger sister, Lisa Barrett, whom he loved dearly and missed every day.
A celebration of Donald’s life will be held on Saturday, August 2, 2025, at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Avoca, with a visitation beginning at 9:00 a.m. and Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 a.m., officiated by Father Thomas Reilly. A luncheon and time for fellowship will follow at the Avoca Community Center. Burial will take place at the Avoca Cemetery.
In honor of Donald’s giving nature and his lifelong support of agriculture and education, the family kindly requests that memorial donations be made to the Avoca Area Food Pantry or the Riverdale FFA Scholarship Fund.
Though he may be gone from our sight, Donald P. Barrett will remain forever in our hearts. His legacy lives on through the countless lives he touched with his kindness, his quiet strength, and his unwavering love. May he rest in eternal peace
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