William Harold Barrett

Thursday, May 5, 2011

William Harold Barrett, 89, Indianapolis, passed away Tuesday, May 3, 2011.

He was born in Pocatello, Id. on Jan. 13, 1922.

Bill was stationed with the Navy V-12 during World War II at DePauw University. While there, he met and married his wife of 67 years, Georgia Zeis Barrett, who survives him.

He is survived by his six children, Steve Barrett (Mary) of Muncie, Janice Vanek of Elmhurst, Ill., Craig Barrett (Karen) of Hebron, Ky., Nancy Dawson (Mike) of Grabill, Jim Barrett (Beth) of St. Louis and Susan Perkins (Woodie) of Batesville; brother, Joseph Barrett (Shirley) of Roy, Utah; sister Ilene Middleton (Preston) of Mesquite, Nev.; 11 grandchildren, David Barrett, Jeff Barrett, Kevin Barrett, Anne Vanek, Georgia Barrett Holt, Laura Barrett, Justin Barrett, Kyle Barrett, Andi Barrett, Bradley Perkins and Brandon Perkins; and 3 great-grandchildren.

Bill was preceded in death by his father Henry, stepmother Josephine Barrett and mother Lenora Tolman Porter of Pocatello, in-laws James and Helen Zeis of Greencastle, son-in-law Frank Vanek and grandson, Sgt. Joe Vanek.

Bill graduated from DePauw University in 1950 and worked for the insurance industry for over 30 years. He was owner of Barrett Insurance Agency in Indianapolis until his retirement. Bill was a staunch Purdue sports fan.

"My father loved each of us unconditionally and was a role model for living by high ethical standards. He lived his life with integrity. Dad was devoted and committed to his marriage, family and country," said oldest daughter, Jan Vanek.

In lieu of flowers, donations to the American Heart Association would be appreciated. There will be no visitation; a private family service will be observed.

Indiana Funeral Care is in charge of arrangements.