James R. Barrett, 63, of Trout Lake, died Monday, August 9, 2010, at Tendercare Nursing Facility in Sault Ste. Marie.

He was born August 20, 1946, in Sault Ste. Marie to Harvey and Florence (nee Rapson) Barrett.

Mr. Barrett was graduated from Rudyard High School in the Class of 1964.

He married Linda Mills October 12, 1968, at Christ Chapel in Trout Lake, and they lived in Davison for much of their married working life. He retired from General Motors AC Spark Plug in 1995 and moved back to Trout Lake.

He was active in the American Legion Post 267 in Davison and also the 6th District American Legion. He was also a member of the Engadine American Legion Post 290. He was active in the union at General Motors, where he was responsible for major decisions. He drove truck for Graham Trucking for three years after moving to Trout Lake, and loved the song, “On the Road Again” by Willie Nelson, calling it his theme song.

Mr. Barrett left his mark in the communities of both Davison and Trout Lake, and was committed to veterans causes, helping in community work.

He enjoyed playing golf, both in Michigan and Florida, where he spent the past several winters. He liked to hunt and fish, especially for partridge and deer.

He is survived by his wife, Linda; two daughters and their families, Christina and Chris Gagliano of Rochester, New York, and Jamie and Brian Jones of Vernon; three brothers and their families, Harvey “Buck” Barrett of Trout Lake, Bernard Barrett of Holland, Tim and Pam Barrett in Ohio; two sisters and their families, Cynthia and Rick Dailey of Sault Ste. Marie, and Marie Barrett of Lansing; three grandchildren, Brittany Wiggins, Brianna Jones, Ian Gagliano; and one great-grandchild, Payton Wiggins.

He was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, Melvin Barrett; and sister, Georgia Hodges.

Friends called at Dodson Funeral Home Friday, August 13, from noon to 2 p.m., followed by services with Pastor Berry Levine officiating. Military rites were conducted by Legion Post 267 with Honor Guard of the National Guard. Burial will be in Lakeview Cemetery in Trout Lake at a later date.

Memorials may be directed to Bulemore Bash Out Cancer Team with envelopes available from Dodson Funeral Home.