Wayne Paul Barrett, age 64, a Concrete, Washington resident, passed away April 29, 2023, in a car accident.  He was born in Malta, Montana to Wayne Lee and Arlene Rachel (Rustad) Barrett.  He spent much time on his family’s ranch and referred to it as the best times of his life; the place he always called “home.”

Wayne graduated from Great Falls High School in 1976; received his bachelors in industrial arts from Northern Montana University.  During his time in college, he was part of the wrestling team.  Then he went on to receive his masters in education.  Wayne spent many years at Pasco High School as a shop teacher.  One of his greatest accomplishments was building jet boats with the students.  He then went on to be Pasco High School vice principal, then to Kiona Benton High School principal, then to Omak alternative school principal and shop teacher where he brought back the legacy of his boats.  Finally, he finished his career as Concrete School District superintendent.  Mr. Barrett was a huge part of so many students, and fellow peers’ lives whom he loved dearly.  During this time, he influenced many kids through his many years coaching wrestling and baseball.

During his time in Pasco, he started the well-known Sand and Sage Retriever Club.  He went on to run hunt tests and then field trials.  His dogs meant the world to him and many of which were Master Hunters and Qualified all age dogs.  Many of his greatest friends came from this world and some of his greatest memories of running dogs with his daughter, Kamela were shared.  A few years ago, Wayne started to get back into the dogs when he and his daughter got labs again.  He was very excited to retire and start this adventure again.

Wayne was a beloved educator, principal, superintendent, father and most of all, grandfather.  Secondary to his family, Wayne had a great love for all people and students he came across.   Many knew him as stern but loving.  He was always the first to help someone in need.  Wayne was so excited to retire and get back to all the things he loved the most; hunting and family.

He is survived by his daughters, Jene LaCroix and Kamela Kraemer and son in law, Josh Kraemer; son, Seth Barrett; brother, Scott Barrett and sister in law, Lisa Barrett; sister, Kim Blunn and brother in law, Jim Blunn; grandchildren, Morgan, Dominic, Chloe, Avery, Mason, Reghan, Jennavecia, Max, Ellie, Micah and Kasey.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Wayne and Rachel Barrett.

If Wayne or Mr. Barrett touched your life in any way, we would love for you to come and celebrate his life well lived on Saturday, June 17, 2023 at the Sunset Gardens Tri-Cities Washington at 1:00pm.  Share your memories of Wayne and sign the online guest register.