Mary Ann Barrett (nee Behringer), 80 of Lakewood, Illinois died surrounded by her adoring children on Monday, July 25, 2016. She was the devoted and loving wife of Robert M Barrett for 51 years. Her great joy in life was being mother to her six children: Robert (Jenny), Linda, William (Lynda), Martin (Lisa), Michael and Anthony. Cherished Grandmother to: Kyle (Meghan), Sara (Garth), Matthew, Bobby, Trevor, Josh, Michael, Jason, Rebecca (Randy) and Matthew (Kristin). Great grandma to eight. Preceded in death by her husband Robert M Barrett, father Donald Behringer and Mother Marie (nee Chambers), brother Donald (Ann) Behringer, survived by sisters Kathleen (Harold Marthinsen), Cornelia (Emil Schwarz) and sister in law Ann Behringer. Loved by countless extended family.
She was known for her kindness, gentle nature and constant smile, but it was her deep faith that made her a model for living. Many called upon her for fervent special intention prayers. Mornings you could find her at the kitchen table reciting prayers from her stack of prayer cards, books and notes. Rosary in hand, she reserved a day of the week for each of her kids with Sunday's kept for church calling for prayers for family and friends.
She was a talented painter, an avid golfer and could assemble the most complex of puzzles created. She made the most amazing kolachkes cookies, and hosted countless numbers of noteworthy parties with The BIG R. She fought her disease with Scleroderma for years with complete grace - belying the degrees of pain she endured. She was the heart of the house and everything was better when she was present. From the hugs to the bills tucked into your pocket, purse or card...she always found a way to show her affection.
Her early years working at the FBI as a secretary made for great stories and even longer friendships. As if raising six kids wasn't enough, she learned to fly a plane, the art of calligraphy, took lessons in hand writing analysis and could swing a golf club that made you wonder if she could go pro.
In all ways she demonstrated a pureness of heart that makes her passing both painful and a life so rich in love - that it should be used as an example for living. There is no way to fill the huge gap in our lives her passing creates, but we will seek to feel her presence each day we have on earth until we meet again, for there is no love more powerful than a mother's love.
Visitation will be from 3:30 – 8:00 p.m. on Thursday, July 28th at te DeFiore-Jorgensen Funeral Home, 10763 Dundee Road and at St. Mary Catholic Church, 10307 Dundee Road, Huntley on Friday, July 29th from 9:00 a.m. until the time of the 10:00 a.m. Funeral Mass. Burial will be in All Saints Cemetery, Des Plaines. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Scleroderma Foundation at www.sclerodermafoundation.org For more information please call 847-515-8772 or online condolences can be directed to www.defiorejorgensen.com
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We were so sorry to hear the sad news about your mother. I remember the days when the Barretts lived in the Burning Bush neighborhood and we spent a lot of time there. Your mom was busy with so many of us kids in the house and it seemed a fun place to be. Hoping that all of you can find comfort in knowing the permanent place your mom will have in your hearts and that you feel an abundance of God's gentle healing mercies in the coming weeks and months.
As a starter at Red Tail, it was always a joy to see Mary coming up to the tee in her cart. She didn't treat me as a "worker" but as a friend Always a smile and kind words. Bob has been waiting for her and probably has a good start time at the first tee.
Your tribute to your Mom says it all. She always had a smile on her face, never complained and after spending time with her, you felt better as well. She was truly one of a kind and could be comfortable with the Queen of England or with someone working in her yard. Her thoughtfulness and generosity could never be matched, much less outdone. Heaven gained another Angel. She will be missed more than she ever could realize.
Your mom seemed like a very special lady. I wish I could have gotten to know her better. May God provide peace and comfort as you deal with the loss of a dear loved one.
So sorry for your loss.I got to know her through my husband Tom ,and have many good memories of time spent with her.
So sorry to hear about your mom, Tony. Thinking of you and your family...
Dear Cousins, I'm so sorry for such a great loss. Aunt Mary Ann was such a special person, so sweet and caring. We all know she is with your dad now and watching you all from above.
Mike, Linda, and the rest of the Barrett family, sorry about your loss last week. Moms are so cool and influential in ways we may never see. I didn't know yours very well, but I know she had a lot to do with how you turned out, and that was damn fine! I know she'll be missed but also always present. My condolences.