Ronald Lee Barnett

Ronald Lee Barnett “Buckshot”, 72, died Sunday, March 15, 2020 doing what he loved best – working on his ranch.  Ron was born September 22, 1947 in Brainerd, the son of Alfred and Mable (Wilson) Barnett.  Growing up on the family farm he spent a lot of time planting trees, cutting wood and riding horses with his cousins.  After graduating from high school, he was drafted in the US Army and was stationed in Germany.  When he returned home, he continued the life he knew and loved – ranching.  In addition, Ron worked for Potlatch for many years before starting his own trucking business.  Ron was a member of Local 79 and Local 548 for many years and returned to the paper mill as a millwright and boilerman. When he retired, he was able to live his dream:  working full time on the ranch and becoming a professional cowboy.

Ron didn’t need much more than a horse to ride, a dog by his side, and land to farm to make him happy.  He enjoyed elk and deer hunting, ice-fishing, and perfecting the long Minnesota goodbye. Ron had a sweet tooth and was spoiled most days with Sandie’s never-ending supply of desserts.  And if he felt he needed an extra supply he had a good stash of Snickers, chocolate covered cherries, and candied orange slices.  He was a great husband, wonderful father, and amazing grandpa.  His straight-talking manner and smile will forever be missed.

He is survived by his loving wife of 34 years, Sandie; children, Wayne (Stacey) Harting, Ryan (Lisa) Barnett, Trevor (Jennifer) Harting, Jeff Barnett, Chad (Jody) Harting, Jed (Rhonda) Harting, and Kristi (Torance Loftis) Lofquist; grandchildren, April, Samantha, Maddi, Ellie, Luke, Sam, Eric, Kayliegh, Austin, Ashley, Whitney, Johnny, Lili, Miranda, Rhett, Rhya, and Ethan; great-grandchildren, Bronson, Beau, Oliver, and Milo; siblings, Adeline Harvey and Doug (Tammy) Barnett; mother-in-law, Margaret Daidone; sister-in-law, Diann Nelson; nieces, Kandi (Matt) Gardner and Sara (Chris) Nagel; nephews, Troy (Rhonda) Harvey and Tim (Maria) Harvey; many other family members and good friends; his constant companion, Toby and his cows, horses, and chickens that depended on his care.  He was preceded in death by his parents, Alfred and Mable; grandson, Jacob Barnett; and his son-in-law, Greg Lofquist.

Ron’s life will be celebrated at 11:00 a.m., Friday, March 20, 2020 at Motley Free Methodist Church.  Family and friends are invited to gather Thursday evening from 2-7 p.m. at Nelson – Doran Funeral Home in Brainerd with a prayer service at 6:30 p.m. and Friday morning one hour prior to services at the church.  Military Honors will be provided by the Brainerd American Legion, Post #255.  Interment will take place at Bridgeman Cemetery.  Cowboy boots are encouraged.

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