Barry Charles Slagle

Barry Charles Slagle, born on April 25, 1952, in Pittsburg, PA, was sent to his eternal home on December 29, 2024, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. He went peacefully and surrounded by loved ones. He was the beloved son of Dorothy Jean and Chuck Slagle.
Barry was a shining light and steady anchor in the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing him. His journey on this earth was one marked by joy, love, compassion, and an unwavering sense of humor. His passing has left a void in the hearts of his family, friends, and many more whose lives were touched by him. So many lives, we may never know his full impact.
Barry is survived by his loving brothers, Jay and Tim Slagle, their wives, Anne and Connie Slagle, and his beloved nieces and nephews - Allie, Melissa, and Christopher. He is the cherished father of Adrianne Slagle, Lauran Slagle, Betsy Wynn, and Eric Amoa Sakyi. He also leaves behind an endless list of his and his daughter's friends, to whom he was a confidant and great supporter. He became a father to anyone who wanted or needed that special kind of love.
After graduating from Indiana University's law school, Barry was recruited to the State of Wisconsin's Public Defender's office and served the community for 21 years. He returned to school for a graduate certificate in Restorative Justice and was then appointed as a County Court Commissioner. Upon retirement, he was a policy reform advocate and sat on the board of the Lotus Legal Clinic. His Legacy is marked by a dedication to the underdog, the least served and heard of humanity. He was a tireless steward of justice, peace, and healing.
Outside of his work, Barry found joy in travel, nature, creative writing, his children, and watching football with his brothers and friends. In the later years of his life, he loved to sit in the backyard listening to the birds and reading his book. May his spirit always rest with the butterflies and birdsong.
Those who knew Barry will remember him for his larger-than-life vibrance, generous kindness, booming laughter, and ill-timed jokes. He had a rare gift for making others smile and laugh, leaving a lasting impact on all who crossed his path.
A Celebration of Life picnic will be held this summer at Hawthorn Glen, where he used to coach his daughter's soccer teams. Date to follow.