Lester J. Barrett

Born in Buffalo, NY, the son of Adelaide and Henry Barrett, Lester graduated from Kenmore High School and attended the Art Institute of Buffalo before and after serving in the U.S. Army Air Corps from 1943-1946. While stationed in Honolulu he also taught a life-drawing class for fellow wingmen and attended classes at the University of Hawaii. In 1947, while a student, he painted a mural at the Art Institute of Buffalo with Joe Orffeo and Jim Vullo; it was one of AIB Director Bill Rowe’s projects. Between 1944 and 1950 Lester had three one-man art shows in Denver, CO and Buffalo, NY and appeared on TV several times on "The Morning Show from Hengerer's Tea Room" demonstrating pastel portrait drawing. He graduated from the University of Buffalo with a BFA in 1959.

Art remained a constant, life-long pursuit. Lester could be found sketching in any social situation, and loved art classes, museums, books, and often participated in community art shows. He enjoyed opera, theatre, and ballet, encouraging his children and grandchildren in any artistic interests and all educational opportunities. He shared art with young people whenever an opportunity arose. He believed in lifelong learning and had a fanciful sense of humor. His fierce optimism was usually on display. (Source: https://memorialsource.com/example/lester-james-barrett)