Norman Lee Barnett

Norman Lee Barnett, born on October 5, 1947, in Silverton, Oregon, to the late Esther Lillian Earhart and James Alvadore Barnett, passed away on May 2, 2024 in Salem, Oregon. He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend.

Norman went to Eugene Field Elementary, Mark Twain Junior High School, he then graduated from Silverton Union High School in 1965. After high school he embarked on a fulfilling career. He worked for Johnson Bros. Lumber Co., Probst Construction, and Publishers Lumber before retiring from Pepsi Co. in 2016. His dedication and strong work ethic left a lasting impact on those around him.

Norman’s service to his country was commendable. He served in the US Army from 1966 to 1969, completing two tours of duty in Vietnam. His bravery earned him a Purple Heart and an Army Air Medal. He was honorably discharged as an E5 SGT. Even after his military service, Norman continued to serve his community by volunteering for the Silverton Fire Department.

For over 53 years, Norman was a proud member of the BPOE Elks in Silverton. Norman loved being involved in the Hoop Shoot Basketball contest and distributing toys to children at Christmas. He cherished the camaraderie and shared values of this organization.

Norman married Kathy Jezulin at Trinity United Methodist Church in Salem, Oregon. Together, they built a life filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories. Norman was a devoted father to his three children: Tamara (Darian) Walker, Jared (Aileen) Barnett, and Joshua (Lindsay Heaton) Barnett. His grandchildren, Kelsie Walker, Sidney Walker, Mylie Walker, Hillery Cone, Anthony Cone, Alliyah Adams, Therin Barnett, Claire Barnett, and Jane Barnett, Zoee Heaton brought immense joy to his life. He was also blessed with four great-grandchildren.

Norman’s sister, Jeanene (Dick) Stentz, shared a close bond with him throughout their lives. They supported each other through thick and thin, creating lasting memories that will be cherished forever.

Norman had a passion for sports and spent countless hours coaching and umpiring little league games for his children. Golf and pro football were among his favorite pastimes. He and Kathy explored the world together, embarking on multiple trips to Europe, South America, the South Pacific, and even Antarctica. Their adventures created memories that would last a lifetime.

Reading was another of Norman’s joys. Whether it was a gripping novel or a thought-provoking nonfiction book, he found solace and inspiration within the pages, he especially liked the author, Patrick McManus

Above all, family meant everything to Norman. He treasured moments spent with loved ones, creating a legacy of love, kindness, and resilience. Norman was preceded in death by his parents, Esther and James, and his siblings Russell, Lillian, Harvey, and Carol.

Norman Lee Barnett will be dearly missed by all who knew him. His legacy lives on through the hearts of those he touched, and his memory will forever be etched in our souls. May he rest in peace.