Sean Barr

EMPIRE - Sean Yul Barr, age 63, passed away peacefully on November 3, 2024 with his loving family by his side.

Born on July 18, 1961, in Manistee, Michigan, to James and Muriel Barr, Sean graduated from Owendale- Gagetown High School in 1979.

He went on to attend Westshore Community College, earning an Associate’s degree in Electronics in 1982.

In 1986, he married the love of his life, Janice (Thompson) Barr, and together they raised four children. Over the course of his life, Sean dedicated himself to both his family and his community, spending four decades serving Leelanau County, including his work at Joe’s Friendly Tavern and Art’s Tavern. His time at both Joe’s Friendly Tavern and Art’s Tavern was a testament to his dedication and the sense of family that was always at the heart of his life. Sean worked at Art’s Tavern before its ownership shifted to his brother Tim Barr in 2000. He wore many hats—whether in the kitchen, behind the bar, or taking care of maintenance, he did it all. Though he often appeared quiet and reserved, Sean genuinely cared for the locals and valued the time spent working alongside his children and granddaughter.

Sean had a passion for golf and was an integral member of the Stormy Monday Golf League at Empire Dunes Golf Course for over 30 years. His love for the game was matched by his dedication to the league, which he helped facilitate and grow. When he wasn’t on the golf course, Sean could often be found watching his favorite sports. He had an unwavering love for sports of all kinds. Whether it was golf, NASCAR, football, (Go Blue!) basketball or any sporting event that caught his interest. He also enjoyed playing poker on Thursday nights.

A man of vast knowledge, Sean was a walking encyclopedia, and a wiz at jeopardy, often impressing others with his ability to answer nearly anything. He loved working on Sunday crossword puzzles and enjoyed playing Yahtzee or card games with family. Sean had a knack for fixing just about anything. Whether it was building and repairing golf clubs, rewiring light bulbs, fixing appliances or keeping his hands busy with any number of projects —a skill he shared generously with anyone in need.

An avid morel mushroom hunter, Sean found peace and purpose walking in the woods, where he spent countless hours exploring, gathering, and soaking in the beauty of the natural world. He had a true love for the simple things in life, skipping stones on Lake Michigan, rock hunting, feeding the backyard birds, caring for and admiring the flowers in his yard, enjoying the glow of 4th of July fireworks, stargazing, and always appreciating the beauty of a sunset which remained a steady thread throughout his life.

Sean was a man of boundless curiosity, honesty, and immense skill. With a quiet wisdom that guided his actions and words offering thoughtful insights. His presence always made those around him feel valued and understood, and was one of warmth as though he understood the deeper truths of life, often revealing them in the simplest of ways that enriched the lives of everyone he knew.

Sean’s humble spirit will be deeply missed. He is survived by his wife; Janice (Thompson) Barr, four children; Marie (Bob Willette) Barr, Jenna (Tyler) Patrick, Hannah (Rob Compeau) Barr, and Jacob Barr. Six grandchildren; Kaitlyn, Isabel, Eli and Silas Barr, and Hayden and Sarah Patrick. Siblings; Tim (Bonnie Nescot) Barr, Twin brother Sam ( Julie) Barr, Terry (Jane) Barr, Lori Barr, Jennifer (Kevin) Kelly; and several nieces and nephews.

Sean was preceded in death by his parents; James and Muriel Barr, and his brother, Dirk Barr.

The family extends a heartfelt thanks to the doctors and nurses at Munson Medical Center for their compassionate care.

A Celebration of Life will take place on the Summer Solstice.