Ivan J. Barrett was an author, professor, and historian of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Barrett was born in Mendon, Utah. He received his bachelor's degree from Utah State University and his masters degree from Brigham Young University. Barrett was a longtime employee of the Church Educational System filling many positions, including starting the first LDS Seminary in Nevada. Barrett was a religion professor at Brigham Young University for 40 years. Barrett served as a branch president, bishop, district president, stake president and patriarch. He was also president of the Northwestern States Mission from 1964 to 1966. Barrett and his wife, Minnie were the parents of five daughters. Barrett passed away in 1999.