Donald M Barrett

Donald Michael Barrett March 1949 - July 2022 Donald Michael (Don) Barrett, of Newport, Oregon, passed away peacefully the first week of July, 2022 at the home he shared with his wife, Mareesa Elmquist-Barrett. Don was born in March 1949 to Russ and Gladys Barrett in Chicago, Illinois. He graduated from Chicago Northwestern University with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Journalism and a Masters Degree in Marketing. Don had a long career with the railroad, including Chicago and North Western, Southern Pacific, Union Pacific, and Conrail. He retired from Willamette Industries and Weyerhaeuser as a Director of Logistics. In his career, he was a salesman, marketer, teacher, and computer programmer; and he taught others to use the computer network he programmed to further logistical needs all over the world, including water vessels, trucks, and railroad. He lived and worked in Arkansas, California, Illinois, Iowa, Louisiana, Minnesota, New York, New Jersey, North Carolina, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Washington, Wisconsin, Canada, London, and Mexico. Don enjoyed music, art, performing arts, boating, golf, tennis, and he loved animals. He was also involved in many community activities and organizations, including: Rotary Club of Newport, Newport Christian Church, Special Olympics Oregon, and serving meals to the homeless at organizations such as the Blanchet House, Salvation Army, and Union Gospel Mission. Especially following his accident 8 1/2 years ago, where he suffered a stroke and had a near death experience, Don maintained a strong commitment to embracing life and helping others. His recovery was against all odds, and it changed his view on life significantly, including his relationship with Jesus, and an unshakable commitment to compassion, forgiveness, mercy, and love. Don is survived by his loving wife Mareesa Elmquist-Barrett, his faithful canine companion Sammy, his two sons David and Sean, his adopted son Gary, his stepdaughter Zophia, his granddaughters Nirvana and Oceana, and many friends. He will be greatly missed. A memorial service will be held at Newport Christian Church on Friday, July 29 at 7:00. Directly after, we will have a sunset reception/gathering at the Landing (blue building by the Embarcadero) down the street at approximately 8:00 until sunset. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Lincoln County Special Olympics Oregon at P.O. Box 504, Toledo, Oregon 97391; lincoln@soor.org. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZWQj8MJ8bzc

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Donald M Barrett

March 3, 1949 - July 4, 2022