Robert F. Barrett

Robert F. Barrett age 82 lived a rich life. His early years were filled with formal training as a Jesuit, he earned a B.S. in Physics and followed that up with a Master’s in Finance (NYU), and significant post graduate studies in the fields of law, and physics at Georgetown University. He spent 40 years on Wall Street in Senior Executive Positions as it relates to Finance. He also was the former President and EMT Captain, and a life member of the Volunteer Rescue Squad of Westfield and an EMT member of Scotch Plains. He died on February 28, 2021 in the early morning in the arms of his loving wife, Nancy C. Rosar Barrett of 50 + years at their home in Scotch Plains, NJ. He and his family would first and foremost thank the Police, Fire Departments and the Rescue Squads who with care and passion tried to resuscitate him. Each member there knew of him and his dedicated service to the community that he loved and called home.  

In this time of pain and confusion, Bob never lost sight of what is truly important. He first and foremost had a deep faith and conviction in God and the Holy Trinity. Secondly, he believed in the sanctity of life and marriage. Finally, he believed in family and friends. 

Bob is a man of quiet faith, formally trained in the Jesuit tradition and the teaching of “God in All Things” and “A Man for Others.” He would say, “You know, we may miss the mark but just keep putting it out there.” It is from this simple message that in his 40’s he joined Westfield Rescue Squad. He studied emergency medicine, took courses and learned how to save lives. Each life was precious to him. Each life received a prayer. He would always have a story or a good joke to keep the patient comfortable. When he could no longer ride in the rig, he became a dispatcher. There was no job he was unwilling to do if it helped others. A reflection of “God in All Things.”

Bob believed in the Sacrament of Marriage. He also understood that it was not easy and that not all marriages were meant to be. His relationship with his wife started in Scranton Central High School in Scranton, PA. Nancy Rosar was the lead baton twirler and Bob President of the band. The competition was fierce as to who had the better team. They laughed. They danced. But most importantly they were friends. Then it was time to find new adventures. For 7 years they had their separate journeys. Then one day, they met again and discovered love and romance. That romance lasted for 50 years and was blessed with a loving son Stephen Robert Barrett. Just before he left this world his message was, “I just need to be more loving to my wife.” And he was. He never stopped loving her. For him she was a Saint. She was his rock and he was her pride.

Finally, Bob believed in family. He would always say, “The only difference between families ... is the name.” He loved his siblings Dorothy Barrett, Ruthie Judge, Joanie Babes King, and Joseph Barret their children and grandchildren. He would always have this playful, childlike grin when he would reminisce about the adventures they had. He drew energy from Steve’s wife, Shannon and his grandchildren, Brendan, Cole, Nathan and Michael. Each time they spoke or were together the joy in his face was infectious. But he felt that way toward all the people with whom he came in contact. In his heart, he felt ALL people were a part of God’s family, which we call the human race. He would always invite anyone to be a part of his family. He would find a way to make you laugh and feel just a little bit better. He would listen and seek all that is good and holy. His is always happy for other people’s successes and was a consummate teacher. He would say “Keep going and know that you are a Child of God.”

The wake for Robert F. Barrett will be held on Wednesday, March 3, 2021 from 4pm to 7pm at Higgins and Bonner Echo Lake Funeral Home 582 Springfield Ave. Westfield, NJ 07090 – 908 789-7400. The Mass will be held at 11am on Thursday, March 4, 2021 at Saint Helen’s Roman Catholic Community 1600 Rahway Ave, Westfield, NJ - 908 232-1214. Following the Mass there will be a repast at the home of Tom & Karym Hoens – 434 Tremont Ave. Westfield, NJ 07090 - 908 468-8391.

To live stream the funeral mass, please use the following link:  https://youtu.be/4uK_VCHhgqo

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