Barrett John Obermeyer's Obituary
As a student at Park High School, Barrett enjoyed playing on the football team. After high school, he attended the University of Wisconsin before transferring to Trinidad State Junior College where he earned an associate degree in gunsmithing.
After being drafted, he served in the Army as a nuclear weapons technician and was stationed for a time in Korea. Upon returning home, he resumed acquiring his machinery collection, first in the basement of the family business, The Trading Post, and later establishing his own shop. Barrett was self-employed as a custom rifle barrel manufacturer for over 55 years. He was especially noted for developing the 5R barrel. Passionate about barrel making and the shooting sports, he was a member of the Racine County Line Rifle Club, Southport Masters, Winnequah Gun Club, and the Paddock Lake Sportsman’s Club.
His 59-year marriage with his wife, Ruth Ann, was sparked by their 10-year high school reunion. In his spare time, he enjoyed jogging, gardening, grilling, deer hunting, and old tractors. He was a member of Christ Lutheran Church for over 46 years. During his life, he was particularly fond of his ’57 Corvette, a husky named Tiger, and Spotty the cat.
Barrett is survived by his wife Ruth Ann; children Eric (Jenny) Obermeyer and Carolyn (Kwan) Thai; grandchildren Adam, May, Grace, and Kyra; and brother Alan (Judy).
He was preceded in death by his parents John and Marion (Barrett) Obermeyer and grandparents Ralph and Rose Barrett and Herman and Johanna Obermeyer.
Services for Barrett will be held on Saturday, December 6, 2025, at Wilson Funeral Home. Visitation will begin at 11:00 a.m. and continue until 12:00 p.m. ceremony. A committal service will follow at Graceland Cemetery. Memorials in Barrett’s honor may be thoughtfully directed to Christ Lutheran Church, 24929 75th Street, Salem Lakes, WI 53168.
What’s your fondest memory of Barrett?
What’s a lesson you learned from Barrett?
Share a story where Barrett's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Barrett you’ll never forget.
How did Barrett make you smile?