AUBURN | Charles (Jake) F. Barrette, 87, of Auburn, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, Aug. 5, 2012. Jake was born Aug. 23, 1924 in Auburn, the son of Henry and Christina Barrette. Jake proudly served for 36 years at the Auburn Fire Department driving Engine 4. Jake's hard-working nature was perhaps his greatest attribute. He always held two or more jobs as he raised his family: an Auburn school bus driver, a limousine driver, a faithful and diligent lawn care services provider predominately for B'Nai Israel Congregation. He also served in the Army Reserves at Seneca Army Depot. Jake was a member and volunteer of the East End Men's Club, board of directors for the Auburn Doubledays, retired Firemen's Association, Salvation Army, Great Race and committee member of the local Democratic Party. Lastly, he was a very social man, and in the 1940s, enjoyed performing as a singer in the local vaudeville productions. Jake and his beloved wife Fran had many happy times on Sumner Street where he was the oldest and most long standing resident (56 years). Throughout his years of raising four boys, he was a common fixture at Auburn High School football games. He and Fran were avid campers especially loving Roland's Pond. He loved to golf, camp, fish and hunt. Survivors include his four sons, David (Patty), John (Susan), Steve and Christopher (Mary Lou), nine grandchildren; Taylor, Mike, Amy, Allison, Andrea, Jason (Jessica), RyAnn, Fayebriel and Julianna and his sister; Gladys Rogalski along with several nieces and nephews. This proud man also held his caretakers during recent years in high esteem, Melissa McConnell and Carol Trzaska. In addition to his parents, Jake was predeceased by his wife of 61 years, Frances Monahan Barrette; son, Thomas; brother, Henry; sisters, Caroline and Gertrude; and first wife, Mary Kustyn Barrette. We hope that all will lovingly and with laughter remember “Littleâ€? Jake for the soft hearted, hardworking family man that he was â€" a man who touched everyone he met, while wearing many hats, with laughter and kindness. Friends may call from 3 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 7, at Pettigrass Funeral Home, 196 Genesee St., Auburn. A mass of Christian burial will be celebrated at 11 a.m. Wednesday in St. Alphonsus Church with burial in St. Joseph's Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Auburn Permanent Firefighters Benevolent Association, 23 Market St., Auburn, NY 13021 or St. Alphonsus Church. Funeral arrangements are with the White Chapel Funeral Home Inc., 197 South St. Auburn.
