Raymond Barnett

Raymond Wiley Barnett, 89, of North Platte, NE, passed away Monday, July 20, 2015, at Centennial Park Retirement Village in North Platte. Ray was born December 29, 1925, to Donald Ray and Eva Barnett at North Platte where he grew up. Ray graduated from North Platte High School in 1943 then joined the U.S. Navy in January 1944. Following his discharge in 1946, Ray returned to North Platte and went to work for Sinclair Gas Station and later Fairmont Dairy. In 1960 Ray began his career as a Fireman/EMT with the North Platte Fire Department and retired after 30 plus years of service. On June 5, 1954, Ray married Frances Alice McKenney at North Platte where they made their home and were members of the Berean Church. Ray enjoyed helping others. He was a Boy Scout leader, volunteer and head coach for Special Olympics and a volunteer at the Senior Center. Ray also loved to watch Big Red Football, the Denver Broncos and wrestling. Survivors include his children, Connie Saighman, of Omaha, NE, Sandra (Robert) Lakey and Tommy Barnett, of North Platte, Randall (April) Barnett and Bradley (Beth) Barnett, of Dallas, TX, and Jeffrey (Nita) Barnett, of Centerton, AR; 13 grandchildren; 9 great-grandchildren; and other family. Ray was preceded in death by his wife, Frances; son-in-law, Jim Saighman; his parents, Donald and Eva; stepfather, Shorty Lookhart; a brother, Russell Barnett; and his sister, Janet. Funeral service will be 10 a.m. Monday, July 27, 2015, at Odean Colonial Chapel at C & Sycamore. Burial with military honors will follow in Fort McPherson National Cemetery. Visitation will be 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday at Odean Colonial Chapel at C & Sycamore which is in charge of arrangements. Condolences may also be shared at odeanchapel.com. Memorials are suggested to the North Platte Special Olympics.