Paul E. Barnett

HAMMOND - Paul E. Barnett, 85, of Hammond, IL, passed away on Thursday, March 22, 2012 at McKinley Court in Decatur, IL. Paul, a life-long resident of Hammond, was born August 22, 1926 in Hammond, the son of Charles and Lena Barnett. Paul graduated from Hammond High School in 1944, and enlisted in the United States Navy in July of 1944 shortly after graduation. Paul served in the US Navy as a Machinist on the Landing Ship Tank (LST) 997 in the Pacific Theater during World War II. He was honorably discharged from the Navy in May of 1946. Paul married Frances Hockaday on February 24, 1951 in Decatur. Paul co-owned Barnett Brothers Tavern in Hammond with his brother Bill after being discharged from the Navy. He was employed with York Division of Borg Warner in Decatur for over 35 years, retiring in 1987. Paul was an avid gardener and handy at almost any trade including carpentry, plumbing, and automotive mechanics. He also was a loyal Cubs, Bears, and Illini fan. Paul was proud of his children and adored his grandchildren. He will always be in the thoughts and memories of his family and friends who loved him dearly. Survivors include children Kathy Barnett-Vathakos of Fort Myers, Florida, Dan Barnett of Decatur, and Terry (Kelli)Barnett of Rockford; grandchildren Kristen (Derek) Barnett-Evans of Forsyth, Brett Barnett of Winston-Salem, NC, Adam Barnett of Portland, Oregon, Jack Barnett of Portland, Oregon, Alecia Vathakos of Tampa, Florida, and Katie Barnett of Rockford; great grandchildren Brock and Cole Evans. Predeceased by wife Frances; parents; brothers Dick, Frank, Carl (Curly), Charles (Toodie), Leroy, and Bill; and sisters Lola, Minnie, and Evelyn. The family wishes to thank the caregivers at McKinley Court for their wonderful care and kindness extended to Paul during his time there. Funeral services at 11:00 a.m. Friday, March 30, 2012 at Hilligoss Shrader Funeral Home, Atwood, Illinois, with visitation from 10:00 a.m. until service time. Burial in Hammond Cemetery with military graveside rites accorded. In lieu of flowers, memorials to Hammond United Methodist Church or the charity of the donor's choice. Online condolences to the family may be sent via hilligossshraderfh.com. Obituary written by family members. Online guest book at http://legacy.com/obituaries/herald-review/