Allen Lee Barrett

Allen Lee Barrett, age 81, of Pennock, Minnesota, passed away peacefully on August 16, 2026, at his home on St. John's Lake, surrounded by the family he so dearly loved.

A Remembrance Service will be held for Papa, this Friday, August 28th at 5:00 with visitation after until 7:00 pm and a bonfire for those who would like to attend until 9:00 pm at his home on St. John's Lake in Pennock.

A Life Well-Traveled

Allen was born on April 20, 1945, in Benson, Minnesota, to Earl and Agnes (Lee) Barrett. He grew up in the area and was confirmed at Buffalo Lake Church in 1961. He graduated from KMS High School in Kerkhoven with the class of 1963. Following high school, Allen answered the call to serve his country in the Army National Guard from 1963 to 1967. His service included rigorous training in the Alaskan wilderness and being called to active duty during the national crisis following the assassination of President Kennedy.

A Love That Raced Away

In the summer of 1965, Allen’s life changed forever at the Montevideo Raceway, where he met the love of his life, Kathy. He quickly raced away with her heart, and the pair were united in marriage on November 13, 1965 at Our Saviors Lutheran Church in Montevideo. Together, they built a life rooted in love, family, and shared adventures. Allen spent his professional life on the move. He drove truck for several companies before finding his true calling as an over-the-road truck driver for Schwann's, a career that spanned 22 dedicated years and took him coast to coast. Later in life, he returned to local work, bringing his strong work ethic to the Renville Sugar Beet Corporation and West Central Steel.

Cherished Memories and Simple Pleasures

When he wasn't behind the wheel, Allen knew how to enjoy life's simple pleasures. He loved spending time on St. John's Lake, gardening, woodworking, and collecting scrap metal. He was always up for a competitive game of buck euchre, a trip to the casino, or traveling across the country with his family. Allen cherished community and connection, whether attending large family reunions or meeting up with friends for morning breakfast at McDonald's.

Courage and Care

Allen fought a courageous battle with Multiple Myeloma for 14 years, never giving up hope. His granddaughters, Brielle and Adyssey, spent the last few years closely by his side as his dedicated care team. Together, they shared incredible adventures, traveling to 48 of the 50 contiguous states, and cherished every moment of quality time spent together these last few weeks at the lake.

Family Legacy

Allen is survived by his loving family: granddaughter Brielle Barrett and her daughter, great-granddaughter Adyssey Barrett; daughter Shannon (Rich) Lorentzen; son-in-law Ken (Jill) Freiborg; grandchildren Amanda Freiborg, Dexter Freiborg, Kate Barrett-Murphy, and Brooke (Preston) Fischer (Barrett); great-grandchildren Everett, Wyatt, and Kaylee; siblings Laverne (Ilse) Barrett, Alice (Gary) Seiler, Dale (Dee) Barrett, and Grace (Gary) Schwartz. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Kathy; his daughter, Tammy; his brother, Roger; sister-in-law Joan; his nephew, Jeff; his parents, Earl and Agnes; and several other special family members and lifelong friends.

When recently asked what he would like everyone to know about his journey, Allen simply replied, "That I had a lot of good miles behind me!" He truly did, and the tracks he left on the hearts of those who knew him will never fade.

Memorial Contributions

While deeply appreciated, the family requests that no food, flowers, or gifts be sent to his home. Though not expected, donations in Allen's honor to help with service costs can be arranged directly with his granddaughter, Brielle or send via Check to 7280 21st Ave NW Pennock, MN