Lonson L. Barr

Lonson Lee Barr, D.O., aged 87, a dedicated surgeon, educator, researcher, and lifelong learner, passed away on June 5, 2026. He leaves behind a legacy of service, curiosity, and compassion. He was born November 4, 1938 in Waterloo Iowa. He was raised with strong family values and developed an inquisitive mind, a deep sense of fairness and an enduring commitment to help others. He was on staff at both Grand Rapids Osteopathic Hospital (U of M Health West) and Butterworth/Blodgett Hospitals (now Corewell). He was always very civic-minded, giving back to his community, his profession, his church, and the arts.  

He was recruited to Grand Rapids by Michigan State University as Clinical Professor of Surgery in 1975. He practiced in Grand Rapids and lectured in East Lansing, mentoring many students, interns, and residents from 1975 to 2013.  

He maintained a deep sense of gratitude. He always said he was “born happy”, led a charmed life, and would rather be lucky than smart. His luck and learning led him to many professional opportunities and a wide variety of life experiences. In his leisure time, he enjoyed gardening, playing tennis, walking the beach, reading, but most of all relaxing with his family. He loved music, art, politics, the news, and good conversation. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, Nathan and Jean, his siblings Joel and Roberta, daughter-in law Nancy, and his granddaughter, Grace. He is survived by his wife, Mary, sons Hunter and Joel (Nora), daughters Katherine Pegman (Chris) and Margaret Krei (Andrew). Grand children Pauline, Anna, Nathan, Dexter, Forrest, Sadie, and Evelyn.  

A memorial service will be held on June 20th at Mayflower Congregational Church. Visitation is at 10:00 a.m. and service at 11:00 followed by a luncheon. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Mayflower Church, the Grand Rapids Symphony, Faith Hospice or the charity of your choice. 

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