Robert J. Barr was born on April 20, 1924, in Ortonville, MN, to parents, Samuel A. and Julia (Weber) Barr. As a young boy, he attended school in Ortonville and graduated from Ortonville High School. Following his education, Robert enlisted into the United States Navy. Prior to being sent to Basic Training for the Navy in Farragut, Idaho, Robert attended training at the University of Minnesota. While in the service, Robert served in the Philippines and prior to his honorable discharge he received the purple heart.
Upon his discharge, Robert returned to Ortonville, where he married Betty Hoogestraat on November 10, 1947, at the St. John?s Catholic Church in Ortonville, MN. Together the couple made their home in Ortonville where they were blessed with three children, Mike, Steve, and Tim. Robert worked for a short time as a welder at the old Big Stone Power Plant before joining his father at Barr Electric. Bob continued to work until January 1, 2004 when he retired. Following the death of his wife Betty, Bob worked intermittently between traveling and family until his passing
In his spare time, Bob enjoyed spending time with his family and friends. His grandchildren held a very special place in his heart. Bob took great pride in his military service and cherished time spent with friends at the Navy Reunion held every year. When not busy helping at the shop, Bob looked forward to the many fishing trips he took and also traveling and touring throughout the U.S. He was a member of the Ortonville Fire Dept. for over 35 years, 19 of which he served as Chief. Bob also served as President for the Minnesota Electrical Association and enjoyed volunteering for the local Boy Scout Troop in which he had earn the rank of Eagle Scout as a young man. He will be truly missed.
Robert passed away on Wednesday, October 11, 2006, at the Methodist Hospital in St. Louis Park, MN, reaching the age of 82 years. He is preceded in death by his parents, Samuel A. and Julia Barr; wife, Betty; and a brother, Samuel R. Barr.
Robert will be remembered by his children, Mike (Lynette) Barr of Prospect, KY; Steve (Phyllis) Barr of Ortonville, MN; and Tim (Cathy) Barr of Breckenridge, MN; eight grandchildren, Robyn (Ellefson) Spychalla, Russell Barr, Bobbie Jo Barr, Megan Barr, Alexis Barr, Kristin Barr, Caitlin Barr, and Julie Barr; a sister, Mary Catherine (Barr) Olsen; a brother-in-law, William (Ardy) Hoogestraat; and one sister-in-law, Leona Hanson; as well as many nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.