Marie Barrett Obituary



Marie Louise Barrett

Resident of Morgan Hill

Marie Louise Barrett (Grosslein) passed on March 9th, 2011. Born on February 21st, 1920, Marie grew up in Minneapolis, moving to Morgan Hill in 1936. In high school, she met her future husband Harvey Bradford Barrett (deceased , 1986) whose family ranch was "just through the orchard" from the Grosslein ranch.

Along with her sister Adelaide, Marie went through nurse's training at the old O'Connor Hospital in San Jose. They both joined the Army Air Corps the day after Pearl Harbor at the onset of World War II, as lieutenants. Marie served as chief surgical nurse at March Field, a training air base in Southern California. Harvey was stationed in England in the Army Air Corps. Both Marie and Harvey served for the duration of the war and then the Live Oak High School sweethearts married and had six children; John, Patrick, Mary Ann (deceased, 1952), Thomas, Kathleen and David.

Returning to her medical career in the early 1960's, Marie worked as a county public health nurse, convalescent hospital administrator, orthopedic nurse, and utilization review nurse. She earned the nickname "Super Nurse" from her family after saving the life of a woman whose car was struck by a train. In all aspects of her life - career, friends and especially, family - she was known for her kindness and compassion.

She leaves behind her five children and their spouses; Susan (John), Gail (Patrick), Toni (Thomas), and Peter (David), as well as five grandchildren; Brandi, Christopher, Jessica, Patrick and Jamie, a great grandson Spencer and her devoted caregiver and friend Nimfa Pedrasa.

A celebratory mass will take place at St. Catherine's Church in Morgan Hill at 10AM, Friday, March 18th. Burial to follow at Mt. Hope Cemetery in Morgan Hill. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to March Field Air Museum by calling 951-902-5949. Johnson Funeral Home, Morgan Hill, CA serving the family.

Published by San Jose Mercury News/San Mateo County Times on Mar. 15, 2011.
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It's clear to us that Marie led a wonderful life, blessed with much health and happiness, and a family full of love. And to be so devoted to caring for others--it's very inspiring!

We're sorry we won't be able to be in Morgan Hill on Friday to celebrate her life, but Marie and her family are in our thoughts and prayers.

Terry & Kevin

March 17, 2011

It was my pleasure to get to know Marie many years ago, when we worked in the same orthopedic office. She always had a smile on her face and such a kind spirited lady. Just a few years ago, I happened to see her again in Morgan Hill. So sorry for your great loss. She will be remembered as a very special lady with a BIG heart!

Janis Finch

March 15, 2011

I was sad to see that Marie has passed. She was a great Lady who supported me in my bike rides and events that I was involved with. Its sad to see a great icon of Morgan Hill leave us. And to you David my good friend from High School, i'm back in the theater these days and glad to see you have someone in your life, I guess i let another good one go. Sorry that I can't be there Friday as i will be in class for my new job. god bless your family.

chris souza

March 15, 2011

I am sending love and prayers to all the Barretts, your mom was such a good friend to our family.

Sandy Leonard

March 12, 2011

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