David Matthew Barnett, D.V.M., was born to Richard and Betty Jean (Hart) Barnett on Dec. 5, 1957, in San Francisco, Calif.

His family took him by ferry to his first home on Alcatraz, where his family lived and worked.

David’s family was transferred to the Federal Reformatory at El Reno in 1963, but even after moving to Oklahoma and the Alcatraz prison was closed, his grandparents became caretakers of the island.

This enabled him to visit often and make fond memories, having the run of the island as he grew up.

David attended El Reno Public Schools and graduated in 1976 and attended El Reno Junior College for a year.

In 1977, he married Delinda Nakvinda and they were blessed with three children, Jessica, Chelsea and Joe.

He attended Oklahoma State University and graduated from the School of Veterinary Medicine in 1983.

Upon graduation, he opened a veterinary practice in Okarche.

David worked at the Federal Correctional Institution farm until his retirement in 2012, where he received recognition and many awards for his work.

David was active in various Okarche leadership positions, including Okarche school board, church service and leadership at St. John’s Lutheran Church and Okarche Baptist Church, Lions Club, working with agriculture education and others.

David is survived by his children, Jessica, Chelsea and Joe, as well as his grandchildren Graham, Olivia, John (Jack) and Ethan; also Delinda, his wife of 44 years; his sister Cindy; along with nieces, nephews and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his older brother Mark.

A memorial service will be held at the First Baptist Church in Okarche at 10:30 a.m. Monday, Sept. 14, under the direction of Sanders Funeral Service.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made through the family to Mercy Kids Africa to support the Lusungu Children’s Home in Chingola, Zambia, a children’s home where his family has been involved for many years.