James “Jim” Patrick Barrett, of Burlington and most recently of Saranac Lake, NY, passed away after a short illness in his home on Wednesday, November 18, 2015. He was born on May, 1, 1949 in Lawrence, Massachusetts, and spent his childhood growing up in Andover, MA, and in Burlington. He graduated from the University of Vermont with a degree in forestry.
Jim’s love of the outdoors continued throughout his life. He was passionate about kayaking, hiking, camping, and going on spontaneous road trips throughout the Northeast and Canada. He also loved listening to music, and especially attending bluegrass festivals.
Jim had many jobs throughout his life, but was particularly proud of introducing the concept of food trucks to the Burlington area with his successful mobile Mexican restaurant, “Monty’s.” He had many fond memories of serving coffee and burritos to his favorite customers with his friends and family.
Jim will be remembered for his compassionate nature, sense of humor, and great storytelling abilities. He is survived by his children Zachary Barrett, daughter Emily Barrett-LeBel and son-in-law Graham LeBel, brother Dr. William Barrett and sister-in-law Marsha Barrett, sister Mary (Barrett) Young and brother-in-law Louis Young, aunts Phyliss Maurice and Lorraine Ludwig, and numerous cousins, nephews, and nieces. He is predeceased by his mother and father, Helen (Ludwig) Barrett and Frederick Barrett.
In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Dismas House www.dismasofvermont.org/. All are welcome to join Jim’s family in celebrating his life on December 20, at 1pm at the St. John’s Club. 9 Central Avenue, Burlington, VT.
This article appears in Nov 25 – Dec 1, 2015.


Missed you at Higher Ground for The Gibson Brothers Sunday night Jim. God rest your soul.
Mentor, business coach, friend, Vermonter, advisor. I owe much to you Jim. Great father (as evidenced by two awesome individuals Emily Kay and Zach Barrett). Certified burritotologist , University of Tijuana night school. You did good. Miss you.
I had the privledge of working with Jim for 12 years. A great man with a great sense of humor. He, like stated was probably the best story teller I’ve ever come across. His laugh was unique…& I loved to hear it especially when I was able to crack him up. I can still hear it in my head. I surely hope Jim is kayaking some of the most serene waters he has ever paddled! Rest in Peace my friend