Barry DeCoteau Sr., age 52, of Belcourt, ND passed away on Wednesday, April 5, 2023 at Quentin Burdick Memorial Hospital, Belcourt, ND.

Barry Glenn DeCoteau Sr. was born on November 9, 1970 in Rolla, ND to Norbert Lenoir Sr. and Frances Germaine DeCoteau.  He was raised in Belcourt and completed his education there as well.  Barry was the proud father of five children, Charity, Barry Jr., Shaleigha, Jayden, and Jaylen.  Throughout his life, Barry resided in Belcourt.

Barry held many fond childhood memories where he was the baby of the family; he was especially coddled by his mother and grandma Lena DeCoteau along with sibling Bradley and Missy. While attending the Ojibwa Indian School, Barry developed into a handsome young man that was a standout athlete and popular amongst students and staff.  Barry as a teenager began excelling at repairing virtually any household appliance along with anything with a gas engine; he was truly a gifted "jack of all trades". Hence, by trade by Barry worked as a mechanic as he loved working on cars; he was also familiar with residential electrical work.

Barry enjoyed being outdoors doing yard work, fishing, and riding motorcycle and ATV.  Barry also loved outdoor summer family gatherings that included food.  He liked listening to 80's music, cruising around, and playing cards. He loved lazy summer days along with some days filled with shenanigans or adventures alike. Barry was known for his enormous heart, always ready to offer a helping hand. Barry was also a strong observant and smart man to never let anyone disrespect him or his family.   He had a wonderful sense of humor, always joking with family and friends; he also had the most distinctive giggly laugh and smile that was simply contagious.

Barry held many roles in his life, but his favorite role was being a father and grandfather. He loved nothing more than spending time with his adult children, Charity and Barry Jr and the young ones, Shaleigha, Jayden and Jaylen. During the last few months as he recovered from illness in Charity's home, Barry was blessed as he discovered true joy in establishing a loving bond with his grandson Bentlee that will last an eternity.

While Barry left us far too soon, the impact of loyalty he had to family will be felt for years to come. Barry was straightforward with family, yet quick in coming to their defense. Barry always made time for others, whether to offer a helping hand or a listening ear to family, friends or anyone in need. Barry was also always ready for a "road trip" when someone needed a companion as he always loved conversation and music. He will be lovingly remembered and greatly missed by all who knew him.

Barry Sr. is survived by his special friend, Dawn Delorme of Belcourt; the mother of his children, Gail Bercier of Belcourt; children, Charity DeCoteau, Barry Jr. (Erin) DeCoteau, Shaleigha Bercier, Jayden Bercier, and Jaylen Bercier, all of Belcourt; grandchild, Bentlee DeCoteau; siblings, Missy DeCoteau, Kaye DeLong, Shaun DeLong, Gilbert Falcon, Nicole DeLong-LaVallie, all of Belcourt, Norbert Lenoir Jr. of Carlin, NV, Brent "Cakes" Morin of Belcourt, and Chester DeCoteau of Fargo; and many nieces, including special niece, Kandace Azure and nephews.

Barry Sr. was preceded in death by his parents, brothers, Lonnie Smith and Bradley DeCoteau (Lisa), and nephew, LeVon DeCoteau.

A Mass of Christian Burial will take place on Wednesday, April 12, 2023 at 10:00 AM at St. Ann's Catholic Church, Belcourt, ND with visitation beginning at 8:00 AM and Rosary Service at 9:00 AM prior to the funeral mass.  Burial will take place in St. Ann's Catholic Cemetery, Belcourt, ND in the spring.

Casket Bearers are Cedric DeCoteau, Travis DeCoteau, Dustin DeCoteau, Bruk Frederick, John Boy Frederick, and Waylon Lindgren.  Honorary Bearers are all family and friends.  Readers are Weston and Chandler Poitra.  Rosary led by LaDene Frederick and Bonnie Parisien.  Eucharistic Gifts by Janice and Duane Poitra.  Music by Terry Baker.

Elick Funeral Home, Rolla, ND