Published in the July 14, 2017 edition
MELROSE — George E. “Butch” Barrett, 78, a longtime resident of Melrose and a retired Melrose Police sergeant, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his family on Monday, July 10.
Butch was born in Melrose on October 9, 1938, one of two children of the late George A. Barrett, and Elva (Charlton) Barrett. Raised in Melrose, Butch cherished childhood memories of playing baseball at St. Mary’s School, and Melrose High School. At the age of 17, he began working for the City of Melrose as a greenskeeper at Mt. Hood Golf Course. After four years learning about course maintenance, Butch joined the Melrose Police Department where he worked for 37 years, retiring as a sergeant.
He was a well-known and well-respected presence around Melrose with strong values, a balanced approach and fair practices.
Butch was an honest, selfless family man who rarely complained, and would do anything for his family. Always generous to his children, he served as their provider and never asked for anything in return. Through his humble example he instilled hard work, and strong values in his family for generations. With a big heart, he was a good friend to many, and most of all treated everyone with the respect they deserved.
In his free time, Butch loved the Bruins, Patriots, Red Sox and the original Boston Braves. A longtime coin collector, he was a member of the Stoneham Coin Club for many years.
He cherished any time with family, vacations to New Hampshire, and especially enjoyed watching his grandsons play hockey, or granddaughter’s gymnastics. At home Butch was happy puttering around the house, doing yard work, mowing the grass, and offering help to his neighbors. Butch leaves a legacy of well-earned respect and his impact will live on with his family and beyond.
Butch was the devoted father of Michael J. Barrett of Melrose, Donna M. Petti and her husband Mark of Tewksbury, Diane Barrett of Woburn, and the late Margaret Tonnessen. He was the dear brother of the late Joan F. Downey and her late husband Richard. He was the cherished grandfather of Mark R. Petti, Jr., Derek J. Petti, Ryan M. Petti, Justin M. Petti and Samantha E. Barrett. He is also survived by several nieces and nephews. He is the former husband of the late Joanne C. (Enos) Barrett.
Relatives and friends will gather in honor of Butch’s life during visiting hours at the Robinson Funeral Home, 809 Main St., Melrose on Friday, July 14 from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m., and again on Saturday at 9:30 a.m. before leaving in procession to St. Mary’s Church, Herbert Street, Melrose for his funeral Mass celebrated at 10:30 a.m.
Interment in Wyoming Cemetery, Melrose.
For online tribute or directions: RobinsonFuneralHome.com.
