Alan Douglas Barten

Alan Douglas Barten, 70, of Appleton, passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by his loving family on April 13, 2024. Al was born on July 9, 1953 in Appleton, Wisconsin, to John and Alice (Lewin) Barten.

Al graduated from Appleton West High School (“West is best”) in 1971 and worked as a Lineman with WE Energies for 38 years before retiring. Throughout his life he enjoyed motorcycles, weight-lifting, hunting, fishing, playing cards, and took every opportunity to gather with friends and family to enjoy a cold “beverage”. Al even had a traveling suitcase and a cooler at the ready to provide “hydration.” His love for fishing continued for many years with a lot of trips to Lake Erie, Lake Winnebago, Canada, and many other local fishing spots, each one ending with a fish fry. Al always had a joke or funny story ready to go at any moment and would often say, “Bad decisions make great stories.” He had an immense love of music, with a huge collection of albums, cassette tapes, CD’s, and eventually digital playlists with music from all genres.

Al’s kids and grandkids became a huge focus in life, as the family grew. He would go to any and every event he could, from concerts to sports, to show his support for them. Many memories were made when taking trips up north to his cabin near Mountain, WI. Al’s time up north was spent around the fire, picking berries, hunting, and just enjoying the outdoors. He always looked forward to annual deer camp, playing his favorite card games, and a successful hunt was always a bonus. Al found deep satisfaction in teaching and watching his family succeed along the way.

Al is survived by his wife, Therese; his kids: Nicole, Amber, Adam (Melissa), Brittany, Brock (Xeng); grandkids: Ani, Abel, Arianna, Charlie, Aiden, Liliana, Milla, Brody, and Shay; his brother, John (Missi); nieces and nephews: Ryan (Shannon), Matt, Emily (Tony); brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, cousins, and many friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, grandparents, and aunts & uncles.

Thank you to Dr. Schmidt, Dr. Bylow, their respective teams, and hospice staff. Also, thank you to all of our friends and family for all of the support and many visits over the last several weeks.