Jay Patrick Barnett

"On February 25 2026, just before his 67th birthday, Jay Patrick Barnett found eternal peace. He was fondly known as Pat, Patty Wack, Uncle Pat, the Fireman.. But most importantly Dad and Papa.

On St. Patrick’s Day in 1959, Jay was born to young parents, MaryAnna (née. nelson) and the late J C Barnett. His younger years were not perfect, and he saw and experienced things our young children should not. He grew up during the generation of freedom, unstructured, outdoor play, and minimal supervision. In high school he excelled in sports, and made lifelong friends. He told stories that would make you believe he was the coolest guy in school - he truly was a “bada**”.

As a young adult, Pat worked hard, but likely partied harder. He spent much of his free time riding motorcycles and dune buggies, or bow hunting, both of which led him “up north” to the family cabin in McKinley. Most impressively, he loved bear hunting with a bow from a tree stand. Not only did he love to hunt, but he also appreciated seeing wildlife, and would always point it out or seek it out on back roads.

He loved watching NASCAR and football, but would entertain any sporting event on television. He was an excellent Kazoo player and card player. I'm not sure what in him made Pat such a goof, but he was always there with a beer and a costume of some sort. A true jokester, and prankster, he was always trying to get a laugh. He could tease, though you might want to tread lightly teasing him back. He could be easily offended at times.

In the early 1990s, he moved “up north” due to what he jokingly called “conformity issues” in southern Michigan. After years of bachelor life, he finally settled down into parenthood at age 33. As a dad and protector to Courtney, he shared his love for hunting, fishing, river trips, car shows, UP trips, and hanging out in the garage. Dad dedicated himself to showing up — to sporting events and spelling word practice alike. With his signature video camera in hand, he captured countless memories. He showed up. Every time.

Pat leaves behind his daughter Courtney (Thomas) Danhoff, his grandchildren Collin Patrick and Taylin Duane, and his special bonus grand daughter Mackenzie (Garrett) Rhoads. He is also survived by his mother, MaryAnna Grover, his siblings and their spouses, Denise (Marty) Sizemore, Chris (Michelle) Folts, and Terry (Diane) Folts; along with a plethora of special cousins and extended family. Pat cherished every family reunion and holiday gathering. He was preceded in death by his father J C Barnett (1937-1960), and many of his drinking buddies.

He was exceedingly proud of all 3 of his grandchildren. For someone completely grossed out by birth, Pat was the first to attend midwife appointments, set up birth pools and arrive immediately after delivery. He was proud to hold babies, to play with toddlers, to embrace fishing and riding with kids, to watch sporting events of students, and to witness weddings of adults. He was proud of every stage of grandparenting.

He made family at any local watering hole. He was always first to join a group of friends, for beers, for a game, for a trip or for some live music! He went on many snowmobile, side by side, and mud bog trips. He could “fix” anything, and his hands were often “liquid bandaged” together. As age set in, Pat found peace in watching westerns, spending time with his mom and siblings, gambling. He fought hard against his cancer diagnosis with both holistic and modern treatments. He wanted so badly to beat it for his babies. He didn’t want to leave them behind.

His loved ones hope he is remembered most for his smile and his ability to create a laughable moment. Please join us in remembering his fun personality on Saturday March 7th at 2 pm at the Mio Moose Lodge."