Franklin Earl Barnett, 73, of La Junta, passed away Thursday, July 1, 2021, at his home.

Franklin was born July 9, 1947, in Denver, CO to Fred and Ann (Earl) Barnett. Frank grew up in Las Animas where he graduated from High School in 1965 and was accepted to the Air Force Academy in July of 1965 where he had dreams of becoming a "Fighter Pilot". Unfortunately, that dream was shattered when he had a knee injury that ended his career in the military. He went to college at Colorado State University in Fort Collins where he obtained his degree in science in 1973.

Frank worked for United Airlines as a supervisor on the airplane. He was able to travel to many places in his career and was able to give his mother a few trips of a lifetime. Frank obtained his pilot's license and was able to purchase a small airplane. He flew down to the valley from Denver and was able to take his mom up and fly around the farm in Manzanola. She was very proud of the photos that were taken. Frank then began his second career in Corrections where he was employed until he retired.

Frank moved to La Junta where he was able to enjoy his time playing bridge on the computer along with his lifelong love of reading and inventing. Frank enjoyed football and on Sundays, you could find him in front of the TV with a bowl of chili, homemade rolls, and cherry pie with a large glass of milk.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Fred and Ann Barnett and older sister, Freda Patterson.

He is survived by his niece, Carol Coates (Gerald Miller) of Rocky Ford; great-nephews, Blayne Burns of Rocky Ford, Trevor Coates of San Antonio, TX, Kasey Coates of La Junta; great-niece, Ashlie Burns of Rocky Ford and great-great-niece, Kova Trujillo of Rocky Ford.

Cremation was held and a graveside services will be held at 1:00 p.m., Thursday, July 15, 2021, at Hillcrest Cemetery in Rocky Ford with military honors.

Ford-Ustick Funeral Home of Rocky Ford is entrusted with the arrangements. Online condolences may be left at www.fordustick.com .

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