Arthur Philip Baribeau

ASHLAND, Wis. - Arthur Philip Baribeau, 99, formerly of Saxon, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, Nov. 8, 2023, at Ashland Health and Rehab with family at his side.

Art was born June 8, 1924, in Gurney, to Thomas and Anna (Muhsal) Baribeau. He attended school in Gurney and graduated from Saxon High School. Upon graduation, Art helped his mom run their dairy farm.

On Oct. 28, 1946, Art married Marilyn Joyce Sailer. They made their home in Gurney, where they raised their three children, and in 1959 they moved to Saxon.

Art worked at the Montreal Mine until its closure. For a short period, he worked in Wausau as a welder, then transferred to Beloit Hi-Bob in Ashland. With another closure, he moved temporarily to Carmel, California, where he worked on construction. Missing the Saxon area, Art and his wife returned to Saxon, and he started working at John Deere in Ashland, where he retired. After retirement, Art helped all the loggers and farmers with their equipment as he was an excellent mechanic.

Art was an avid hunter and fisherman. His passion was passed on to the upcoming generation. He loved his two kitties and adopted the neighbor's dog, Buddy.

Art loved driving to Saxon Harbor and sitting for hours watching the boats on the water and people enjoying themselves on the beach. He certainly had a passion for that lake. He did enjoy life.

He was preceded in death by his parents; loving wife, Marilyn; son, Randy; and four sisters and a brother.

Art is survived by his children, Denys Vargovich and Dennis Baribeau; as well as five grandchildren, six great-grandchildren, and six great-great-grandchildren.

As per Art's wishes, no funeral service will be held.

The family has chosen McKevitt-Patrick Funeral Home of Ironwood to honor Art's legacy of life. You can leave condolences or a tribute at mckevittpatrickfuneralhome.com.