Philip “Phil” Roland Barrette, 89 of Prairie du Chien, Wisconsin passed away Wednesday, October 29, 2025 at Prairie Maison in Prairie du Chien, Wisconsin. Philip Roland Barrette was born December 22, 1935, to Roland and Emma Barrette in Prairie du Chien.
Phil worked at National Decorated Metal until it closed. He also worked at Darlington Dairy Supply, Harold’s DX, and the Prairie Marina before starting his career at 3M, where he worked for 26 years. Phil served 3 years in the Army and served as a truck mechanic and paratrooper. He could fix almost anything — from cars and boats to projects around the house. He learned carpentry from his dad and put his skills to good use. His favorite hobby was metal detecting. Phil was well known for his skill in finding lost rings and property stakes for people, and he even sold metal detectors in his spare time.
Phil and Doris met while roller skating at the White Springs, which was owned by Doris’ mother, Ethel Mann. Phil and Doris were married on June 8, 1957, while Phil was on leave from the Army. Their wedding reception was held at the White Springs, with free beer served all night long.
Phil is survived by his wife of 68 years, Doris Darlene (Phalen)) Barrette; two sons, Jerry Barrette and Rick (Teresa) Barrette; daughter, Julie Barrette; eight grandchildren; and seventeen great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his sister, Virginia Powell and many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Roland and Emma Barrette; brothers, Don Barrette, Bob Barrette and Leo Barrette; sisters, Rosemary (Basil) Stephen, Alice (Phil) Barth, Loretta (Al) Koecke, Grace (Bud) McGill, Marie (Stan)Jenson and Josephine (George) Donnahoe; son-in-law Ron Karnitz; and brother-in-law, Ray Powell.
A Visitation will be held from 5:00 pm until 7:00 pm on Tuesday, November 4, 2025 at Thornburg-Grau Funeral Home in Prairie du Chien, Wisconsin. There will be no visitation before mass at the church on Wednesday, attendees are asked to come and be seated prior to 11:00 am.
Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 am on Wednesday, November 5, 2025 at Holy Family Parish St. Gabriel in Prairie du Chien, Wisconsin with Rev. Brandon Guenther as the Celebrant.
Burial with Military Rites will follow at Calvary Cemetery, Prairie du Chien, Wisconsin.
Thornburg-Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Service of Prairie du Chien, Wisconsin is assisting the family with services.