Howard Barnett

Howard Barnett obituary, Bannockburn, IL

Howard Barnett

Howard Barnett Obituary

Published by Legacy Remembers on Jul. 24, 2025.
Howard Barnett, of Bannockburn, IL, passed away on July 22, 2025.

Born on May 15, 1949, in Chicago, IL, he was the loving husband of Cathie for 54 years. He was the proud father of Bryan, Jennifer (Adam), Kevin, and Whitney (Matthew) and adored grandfather of Morgan, Benjamin, Cooper, Alexandra, Reese, Hunter, Winston, and Colette. He was preceded in death by his parents William and Eleanor Barnett and is survived by his sister, Dale (David) Ginsburg and their sons. He was also a beloved uncle, cousin, and friend to many.

Howard will be remembered for his generosity that was all encompassing yet anonymous. He silently helped whenever and wherever he saw a need. His four children and eight grandchildren were his pride and joy. He rarely missed a sports game or performance, and he always made a special effort to connect with each of his grandchildren. With a keen eye for design and architecture, Howard was known for his meticulous attention to detail. He and Cathie enjoyed collecting artwork and took a special interest in post-war and contemporary art. Howard will forever be remembered for his love for boating. Spending quality time on his boat, BARNEXT, with friends and family was his favorite pastime.

Howard's inner drive and curiosity fueled his success as an entrepreneur. After earning a business degree from Loyola University Chicago and becoming a CPA, Howard began his career at the Berman & Berman accounting firm, later becoming a partner. He then opened his first MicroAge Computer Store and went on to create ML Medical Billing. He was also involved with many other successful ventures throughout his career. Howard was a role model and mentor to many, and he was well-respected for his intelligence, integrity, and innovative thinking in all of his business dealings.

While Howard's professional accomplishments were substantial, his greatest legacy is his compassion, love for his friends and family, and fundamental belief that everyone deserves an opportunity. He will be greatly missed by the countless people whose lives he touched.

In lieu of flowers and to honor Howard's memory, donations can be made to Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation, Team BARNEXT, https://give.themmrf.org/team/665654.

Funeral service will be held on Sunday, July 27, 2025 at 10:30am, with a Shiva on Monday, July 28, 2025 from 3-8pm. The funeral service recording will be posted on our website. Please call the funeral home for further service details. Arrangements by Chicago Jewish Funerals - Skokie Chapel, 847.229.8822, www.cjfinfo.com

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

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JUDYBASHKIN posted to the memorial.

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Ernie Kirsch posted to the memorial.

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Wanda Grabowski posted to the memorial.

5 Entries

JUDYBASHKIN

Yesterday

Cathie and family,
Our deepest sympathies on the loss of Howard!
May his memory be a blessing to all of you.
Judy and Bill Bashkin

Ernie Kirsch

Yesterday

To Cathie and the Barnett Family
Our sincere condolences on the passing of Howard.
May his memory be a blessing to all who loved him.
Howard and I had some great times together going back to the Berman and Berman days and the start of his computer journey.
Ernie and Natalie Kirsch

Wanda Grabowski

Yesterday

We are deeply saddened by the loss of such a remarkable man. Howard was truly one of a kind-hardworking, kind, and always willing to help others.
Our family will always be grateful and remember his kindness.
He never sought attention or recognition, but quietly uplifted those around him in ways that left a lasting impact.
His generosity and the genuine goodness he carried in everything he did. His presence will be dearly missed, but his spirit and kindness will live on in our hearts
Sending LOVE hugs and kisses to the family !
We will miss him dearly !

The Grabowski girls

Margaret Dean

July 24, 2025

My sincere condolences to all his family.

Deb Valkenaar

July 24, 2025

Howard was such a wonderful friend and mentor to me. He was such a gracious, generous person. He has helped so many people and leaves a great legacy of compassion. His authenticity, sense of humor, and example of living life to the fullest also stand out. Above all, he loved and cherished his family. May his memory continue to be a blessing and an inspiration.

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Chicago Jewish Funerals - Skokie Chapel

8851 Skokie Boulevard, Skokie, IL 60077-2224

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Sign Howard Barnett's Guest Book

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Yesterday

JUDYBASHKIN posted to the memorial.

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Ernie Kirsch posted to the memorial.

Yesterday

Wanda Grabowski posted to the memorial.