Dewey C. Barr's Obituary
Dewey Clayton Barr proclaimed “God hates the Cubs!” following the infamously demoralizing 2003 NLCS loss to the Marlins. He was certain he wouldn’t live to see the Cubs break the ‘Curse of the Billy Goat’. Well, Dew—you made it!
Dewey mercifully got his final, lifelong wish when he celebrated his beloved North Siders’ first World Series title in 108 years last fall. On Monday, April 17, Dewey drew his last breath, peacefully, in his home, surrounded by his loved ones.
Mr. Barr was born Nov. 14, 1931 in DeLand, Ill.—the son of Edna (Light) and Noah Barr. He married Angeline Romano—his high-school sweetheart—on Jan. 22, 1950.
Dewey leaves behind an impressive legacy as a loving husband, dedicated father, grandfather and great-grandfather. He’s survived by his loving wife of 67 years, Angeline; his daughters Kathy (John) Piotrowicz of Evanston, Ill.; Angie Barr-Cornell of Oviedo, Fla., Maria Barr of Decatur, and his son David (Noreen) Barr of Bradenton, Fla.; seven grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.
Dewey was preceded in death by his parents, brother, sister, son-in-law and grandson Michael
Dewey and Angeline traveled often to visit their extensive family that stretched across the country—mainstays at their grandchildren and great-grandchildren’s sports and artistic endeavors.
Mr. Barr enjoyed a rewarding career with Illinois Power Company for 33 years. He proudly ended his working days at Clinton Nuclear Plant as a start-up engineer.
A self-made man, Dewey’s electrical, plumbing and home-building skills were all self-taught. He restored an old barn into the Forsyth home he and his wife spent most of their retirement in with the help of his son-in-law.
A well-rounded athlete all his life, Dewey was an avid golfer, handball and horseshoes player. Ever the green-thumb, he orchestrated prolific flower gardens during retirement—often coaxing growth with daily lectures to his fragile beauties.
Dewey was a nature lover—particularly partial to birds— an armchair coach, GM and shouting disciplinarian for the Cubs, Bears and Blackhawks, a Budweiser taste tester, an avid reader, a staunch defender of his conservative values, a country-western music aficionado, and lived to enjoy a picturesque sunset.
A celebration of life dedication will be held for Dewey Barr at Doherty’s Pub & Pins from 1-4 on June 3, 2017. Dress- casual. Everyone welcome to attend this tribute.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to DMH Hospice—the compassionate organization was a godsend to the family in his final months—or to St. Patrick’s School or St. Teresa High School where his children attended.
The family of Dewey C. Barr is being served by Moran & Goebel and cremation services, 2801 North Monroe Street, Decatur, IL 62526. Send condolences and share memories with the family at www.moranandgoebel.com
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