Keith M. Barrett

Keith Michael Barrett, 73, of Sabetha, Kansas, passed away on Sunday, April 21, 2024, at his home in Sabetha.  

Keith was born on March 13, 1951, in Seneca, Kansas, to Garwood and Donice (Adams) Barrett.  Keith grew up on the family farm and was a lifelong resident of Sabetha. During high school at Sabetha High, Keith was active in sports.  One of his proudest and fondest high school memories involved track and his 4 x 400 relay team setting the school record in this event, which held until 1990.  Keith graduated from Sabetha High School in 1969. 

Growing up on the family farm, Keith learned the value of hard work, which he carried with him throughout his life.  His positive work ethic was reflected in his successful roofing business.   Through his roofing business, Keith met many people, but he also never knew a stranger because he had an incredible knack for striking up a conversation with everyone he met.  

Keith’s favorite pastime was spending time with his family, whom he loved dearly. Another one of his favorite pastimes was watching and rooting for his favorite sports teams, KU, OU, and the Kansas City Chiefs, no matter the season.  When he wasn’t working, walking his dog, or cheering on his favorite teams, Keith could be found fishing, camping, talking on the phone with family, out at the family farm for Sunday dinner, or reading one of his favorite cowboy books.  Keith was also an avid gardener, so much so, one year the Sabetha Herald featured him and his front yard corn crop in the weekly newspaper.  

Keith’s charismatic spirit, big smile, and storytelling skills will be missed by many. His family is comforted in the knowledge that he is now at peace with the Lord.  

Keith was preceded in death by his parents, Garwood and Donice Barrett. 

Keith is survived by his two sons, Michael (Jessie) Barrett and Matthew (April) Barrett; his step-daughter, Anna Swogar; his eleven grandchildren, Brittany (Mathew) Stevens, Colton Barrett, Jacob Barrett, Wyatt Barrett, Jenna Barrett, MaKayla Swogar, Reyna Swogar, Alayna Swogar, Jett Swogar, Maddox Swogar, and Niko Swogar; his three great-grandchildren, Weston Chermok, Lilly Chermok, and Dalton Stevens; his seven siblings, Sharon Gillette, David (Ann) Barrett, Gayle Devore, Steve (Mary Ann) Barrett, Kathy (Jim) Graney, Gary Barrett, Jeff (Robin) Barrett; and his aunt, Mary Linden of Seneca, Kansas.