Darrell Barnett

Darrell Dean Barnett, 77, of Colby passed away on Friday, January 25, 2013 at Citizens Medical Center, Colby, surrounded by his family. He was born on February 5, 1935 to Jesse and Edna (Chadd) Barnett at the family farm north of Rexford, KS. It was on this farm that he spent his childhood and growing up years. He was inducted into the US Army in June of 1953 and discharged in May of 1956 receiving an Army Good Conduct Medal. He continued to serve in the US Army Reserve for eight years concluding his military service in November, 1962.

Darrell was united in Marriage to Charlene Seeberger on June 6, 1957. They lived on the Barnett family farm until moving to Longmont, CO in October 1961. While living in Longmont they raised their three children; he worked as a heavy equipment operator for many years until he began operating as an over the road semi truck driver in 1979. Darrell and Charlene retired to Colby, KS in September, 1993. He was a member of Sacred Heart Church in Colby and the VFW Barnett Post # 6882. Although he was retired, he continued to drive semi for family/friends and enjoyed his time on the road. In his later retired years, Darrell did seasonal farming for friends.

His spare time was spent fishing and telling tales of “the big ones that got away!” He very much enjoyed his grandchildren and attended their sporting events and activities. He spent many hours entertaining family and friends with his inventions, squirrel houses, worm farms, fish fry picnics and the making of homemade ice cream. Other things he enjoyed were stock car races, both in Colby and the surrounding towns and also being able to watch a demo derby every now and then. He loved to play cards, farkel, attending sporting events and going gambling. He would gladly speak his mind but you always knew where you stood in his eyes. He was tough on his outer shell but inside contained a tender and caring heart. He was a generous man who did not know a stranger. His gift of being able to strike up a conversation with anyone he encountered was his trademark. He spent many hours at “The Office” as he would call it or better known as McDonalds with his coffee buddies and friends. By far, Darrell’s greatest joy was sharing time with his family, especially his grandchildren.

Darrell was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Elgin and Roy; and sister, Virginia Broders.

He is survived by his wife of 55 years, Charlene of the home; daughters, Sandy DeSotel and husband, Denny of Berthoud, CO and Janice Ackerman and husband, Al of Hays, KS; son, Bernie and wife, Kris of Mead, CO. Seven grandchildren, Chris, Tony, Amber, Mandie, Ryan, Darin and Brandon and seven great grandchildren, Tacey, Jamie, Tatum, Lillian, Charliann, Caden and Lilly. Brother, Mirl and wife, Evelyn of Rexford, KS and sister, Opal Moss and husband Earl of Hoxie, KS; other relatives and a host of friends. He will also be fondly remembered by numerous nieces and nephews and their children that have special memories of Darrell during the holidays, family gatherings and his tall tales and teasing.

Visitation will be from 3 – 8:00 pm, Sunday, January 27, 2013 at Baalmann Mortuary, Colby with a Vigil service at 6:30 pm. Funeral Mass will be 10:30 am on Monday, January 28, 2013 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Colby. In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to the Darrell Barnett Memorial Fund in care of Baalmann Mortuary, PO Box 391, Colby, KS 67701. Condolences: www.baalmannmortuary.com