George Barnett

George was known as many things to many people. He was a loved one, a friend, and someone special. To family and friends who knew him best, George will be remembered as a very exceptional person. He woke up every day in his life happy, even before coffee.

As a young boy, George had a number of interests. Like most children, he enjoyed playing and making up games. He was curious about the world around him and was often eager to explore it. In his spare time he liked getting into mischief. George's memorable achievements included graduation from Elizabeth High School in 1961. However, to George, the most fun to be had was simply playing and spending time with his friends.

A typical teenager, George had a fairly happy high school experience, making that critical transition from adolescence to adulthood. He graduated from Elizabeth High School in 1961. He enjoyed some classes more than others, having favorite subjects and teachers. His favorite class in high school was choir.

In 1967 George graduated from the Culinary Institute of America in New Haven Ct and did his internship at The Greenbriar in White Sulphur Springs, WV. His worse courses in school were anything that pertained to baking (he had to measure).

He spent the majority of career with Marriott Corp. as Food & Beverage Director. He worked for KBR in 2004 to 2005 in Baqubah, Iraq. With KBR, he worked 12 hours a day seven days a week supervising the feeding of 3 to 5 thousand troops daily. He was given several awards by military units for his efforts in being sure they all were fed well.

Always considered a “good” friend to those he knew, George enjoyed an eclectic group of acquaintances and friends during his lifetime. As an adult he had best friends Otis Jackson, his golfing buddy, Raymond Wheeler and Howard "Turkey" Williams his trail riding buddies.

On April 24, 1993, George exchanged wedding vows with Della Elaine Wuest at Bethany Lutheran Church of Austin, Texas. Empathic and loyal, George was committed to making his new family happy.

George was blessed with three children, Michael Barnett, Kristol Barnett and Shaun Barnett. Another blessing for George was the gift of eight grandchildren, Jade, Erika, Michael, Jr., AJ, Tyler, Avery, Chase and Jamie Jean Miller.

George served in the U.S. Air Force. He was stationed in Okinawa, Singapore and Tripoli. He wanted to be an MP, but the Air Force thought he was better suited as a cook, thus his lifelong career. His fellow soldiers viewed him as a brother in arms and knew that he was as much a part of their family as their loved ones back home.

George enjoyed his leisure time by taking part in various hobbies. His favorite pursuits were horseback riding and golf. He was content to enjoy his favorite pastimes alone but was also willing to share his interests with others.

George was a man who took pride in upholding his beliefs. Politically, George was a conservative and strong supporter of the Republican Party.

George’s faith was important to him. He had a very personal relationship with his Lord and Savior.

George enjoyed traveling and time away on vacations. It was a chance for him to renew and relax, to visit new places and experience new things. A favorite vacation spot for him was the Grand Canyon.

George was a lover of animals and cherished his pets. One of his favorites was Lucky, his childhood dog who was lucky because he got to stay. Buster, the first dog God sent, as well as Fred, Roxi and Abby. They were best friends, Lucky was his dog for seven years, Buster, his dog of 14 years and the family still has Fred, Roxi and Abby. His family was rounded out by his horse, Too Tall.

When George retired in 2005, he wasn’t at all ready. His new life involved working with and encouraging mentally and emotionally men. One of the most selfless things he did was without question, taking on the care of his brother-in-law who has down syndrome. In retirement, he found new pleasure - a lot of television and of course, golf.

George passed away on April 16, 2014 at home due to small cell carcinoma. He is survived by his wife, Della Barnett; children, Shaun, Kristol and Michael; eight grandchildren; best friend, Otis Jackson; and his special dog, Fred.

Simply stated, George was a good and kind person, an individual who will for all time be remembered by his family and friends as being a caring and giving person, someone who was a vital part of their lives. George leaves behind him a legacy of many cherished memories. Everyone whose life he touched will always remember George Barnett.

The family will have a remembrance gathering at the residence at 5:00 p.m., Saturday, June 28, 2014.