Barry A. Thomet, beloved father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend, aged 74,

passed away on May 19, 2026, surrounded by family, friends, and his sweet dog Korky.

Born January 26, 1952, in Kansas City, Kansas, one of a set of twins, to parents Leo R. Thomet, Sr. and Willa Thomet. Barry graduated from Greendale High School, class of 1970, and spent three years at the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee before moving west to Nevada. He worked five meaningful years at Lake’s Crossing Center in Sparks, Nevada, before devoting three decades to community outreach with Rogers Behavioral Health in Oconomowoc, Wisconsin, where his steady presence and caring approach touched countless lives.

In 2016 Barry received the Patricia Perkins ICDOF Service Award at the 23rd Annual OCD Conference, commended for his advocacy and dedication to individuals with mental illness through his work at Rogers Behavioral Health. He also served as the Marketing Liaison for the International OCD Foundation.

Barry treasured time with family. He is survived by his daughter, Jen Simons (Justin Osterloh), and his cherished granddaughter, Luella Osterloh. He is also survived by his twin brother, Bryan C. Thomet (Susan); his older brother, Leo R. Thomet, Jr. (Cynthia); his sister, Melissa A. Thomet; nephews Trevor Thomet (Michelle), Christian Thomet (Tabitha) and Alex Thomet; niece Jenna Steffel (Cory); great-nephews Brecken and Griffin Thomet; and great-nieces Collins and Cameron Steffel. Barry also leaves behind his beloved dog, Korky, whom he raised from a puppy, and a wide circle of cousins and dear friends. He is predeceased by his parents and stepmother (Cecilia Fox Thomet). Barry had many close friends, and they and their children were like second families to him.  He loved them all dearly.

Barry’s passions included connecting people with mental health resources across the nation; picking up his granddaughter from school and playing chess with her; fishing—especially in Canada; spending time at the dog park with Korky and fellow dog owners; enjoying live music; sharing a drink with friends in “lake country”; and telling stories—lots and lots of stories. Those who knew him remember a man with a ready smile, memorable stories and a sharp, wry sense of humor.

A private inurnment service and the celebration of life arrangements are being planned; details will be shared with family and friends as they are finalized. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to a mental health or community outreach organization of your choice in Barry’s memory.