Milwaukee native Philip Michael Barnett died of congestive heart failure on May 26. He was 95.
A 1930 graduate of Washington High School, Barnett attended the University of Wisconsin-Madison and the Philadelphia Textile School (currently Philadelphia University). For many years, he ran Barnett Woolen Mills, which was founded by his grandfather. The company processed sheepskins into wool and yarn.
Barnett served on various civic committees and as the president of Jewish Family Services, Inc. He was a member of Beth El Ner Tamid Synagogue for many years and more recently, Congregation Sinai.
A champion wrestler in college, Barnett’s hobbies included hiking, nature science, travel and reading.
“Philip enjoyed being with people — conversing, learning, questioning. He enjoyed monthly get-togethers for Torah Shabbats with a group of friends, [and was] a loving grandfather and great-grandfather,” said his wife of 25 years, Elaine Magidson Barnett of Milwaukee.
Barnett was preceded in death by his wife of 37 years, Ethel Barnett (nee Spector), in 1976. In addition to his wife Elaine Barnett, he is survived by daughters Elizabeth Matz and Cindy Obletz of Milwaukee; son David (Susan) Barnett of Hartland; step-son Richard (Beverly) Magidson of Albany, N.Y.; step-daughters RoseAnn (Simon) Aronin of White Plains, N.Y., and Julie Magidson of Milwaukee; eight grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.
Funeral arrangements were handled by Goodman-Bensman Whitefish Bay Funeral Home. Graveside services were officiated by Rabbi Baruch Comrov at Second Home Cemetery on May 28.
Memorial contributions to Jewish Family Services, Inc., or Welcome Home, P.O. Box 333, Newburg, WI 53060 are appreciated by the family.
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