Wilbur G. Barrett

Wilbur Gene Barrett died on the morning of October 18, 2023, at Homestead Assisted Living, formerly known as Emporia Place. He was 99. Wilbur was born in Emporia, KS on August 27, 1924, and was one of 11 children. His parents, Fred and Annie Barrett, resided on a small family farm north of Emporia. Wilbur married the love of his life, Marjorie Haehn, March 16, 1948, at the Grace Methodist Church in Emporia. He and Marjorie resided in Emporia for their entire lives. Wilbur was employed at Bunge Corporation for more than 40 years, retiring at the age of 65, as head of maintenance. He loved his work and enjoyed the men he saw every day.

Wilbur enjoyed hunting, bowling, playing cards, and watching sports, especially football and basketball. He was a big supporter of Kansas State athletics, the Kansas City Royals, and the Kansas City Chiefs. Following his retirement from Bunge Corporation, Wilbur stayed active with a small hog operation on his farm south of Emporia, assisting his wife in delivering Meals on Wheels in Emporia, and traveling to visit his daughter in New Jersey and California. He and Marjorie received an award from President George W. Bush for their participation in the Meals on Wheels program. Wilbur was known for his smile, his politeness, and his love of whistling.

Wilbur was predeceased by his wife Marjorie, who died on August 7, 2015. His siblings, 8 brothers (Clarence, Ernest, Frederick, Roy, Robert, William, Edward, and Duane) and 2 sisters (Helen and Florence) also predeceased him. He is survived by his daughter, Debra Barrett, of St. Petersburg, FL; two sisters-in-laws, Mildred Barrett of Amarillo,TX and Alice Barrett of Mission, KS; and, numerous nephews and nieces. There will be a graveside service at Memorial Lawn on October 25, 2023 at 1:30 pm. In lieu of flowers, please donate to Hand in Hand Hospice, 1201 W. 12th Avenue, Emporia, KS. 66801. Roberts-Blue-Barnett Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements

Wilbur’s family wish to thank Lisa Johnson, Janee Hill, Kama Duncan, and the rest of the staff of Homestead Assisted Living. They made a real home for Wilbur during the final years of his life. We also wish to thank the personnel from Hand in Hand Hospice who helped us through this difficult time.