Ernie Barrett, known as “Mr. K-State,” passed away at the age of 93 in Manhattan.
A memorial service for Ernie Barrett is scheduled to take place at Bramlage Coliseum on April 27, 2023, at 1:00 p.m. CT. The reception will be held in the Shamrock Zone, and the public is invited to attend.
Ernie Barrett is survived by his wife Bonnie, son Brad, and grandson Ryan with his wife Lauren. However, he lost his parents, Ernie and Ruby, and his son Duane.
K-State President Dr. Richard Linton paid tribute to Ernie Barrett, who embodied the work ethic, dedication, and tenacity that are hallmarks of the Wildcat spirit.
Ernie Barrett was born in Pratt on August 27, 1929. He led the Wellington High School basketball team to its only state championship in 1947 as an all-state basketball player. After high school, he was recruited by Phog Allen and Henry Iba but chose K-State.
Ernie Barrett was associated with K-State for nearly 75 years. He served as a student-athlete, assistant basketball coach, assistant athletics director, director of athletics, university consultant, and director of development.
Ernie Barrett has many achievements, including being the captain of the 1950-1951 team, which opened Ahearn Field House.
He guided the Wildcats to the Final Four as the school’s first consensus All-American. As an assistant coach, he was part of two Final Fours in 1959 and 1964 and five Big Eight titles from 1958-1964.
He played an instrumental role in hiring legendary coach Jack Hartman as men’s basketball coach in 1970 and helped push numerous athletics facilities.
Director of Athletics Gene Taylor paid tribute to Ernie Barrett, saying he poured his heart and soul into K-State for over 75 years.
He supported the decisions made by Taylor and will always be remembered for his care and love for both people and Kansas State.
Aiva Arthur
