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Glover Barnes Obituary
Dr. Glover W. BARNES Glover died peacefully in his sleep at Virginia Mason Hospital on Dec. 20th, 2009 of complications from congestive heart failure. He was a strong but gentle, compassionate soul who was preceded in death by Miriam, his loving wife of 56 years and 2 younger brothers, Carson and Hershall. Born in poverty on Sept. 7th, 1923 in Birmingham, Alabama, he left the south to study Biology and Microbiology, earning a bachelor's degree in Biology at Akron University in Ohio in 1949. He then earned his Masters Degree in Biology and his PhD in Microbiology in 1956 and 1962, respectively at the State University of New York in Buffalo, N.Y. He has held several professional positions spanning over 5 decades beginning in 1955, including Assistant Cancer Research Scientist at Roswell Park Memorial Institute in Buffalo, N.Y.; Consultant for the Urology Research Program at Millard Fillmore Hospital in Buffalo; Research Associate of Microbiology and Assistant Professor of Pathology at the State University of New York at Buffalo; and Associate Professor and Lecturer of Urology, Microbiology and Immunology at the University of Washington. He became a tenured Professor at the University of Washington in 1976 and continued to serve in that capacity after Miriam's death on Feb. 6th, 2008. He also served on several committees; which included, during his 40 years at the University of Washington, the Committee for Encouragement and Recruitment of Minorities in Health Sciences (CERMIHS); Faculty Council on Community Services; Human Subjects Review and Policy; Vice-Chairman, Section A, Review Committee; Human Subjects Policy Board; and Black Faculty and Administrator's Organization (BFAO). Recognized as a "Diversity Trailblazer," Dr. Barnes has served on many boards and commissions, focusing his activism on human and civil rights, health issues, public transit, neighborhood representation, and more. He was an officer of the Board of Directors of the Seattle Federation of Community Councils. He is survived by his two sons, Erik (Lisa) Barnes of Dallas, Texas; Noel (Nancy) Barnes of Renton, WA; grandchildren Ivan, Jalen and Zoey; sister Louise Wood Green and brother Ted of Akron, Ohio; brother Calvin of Decatur, Georgia and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. He will be deeply missed by his family and by those whose lives were touched and inspired by his way of encouraging people to better themselves. A memorial service in his honor will be held at Eastshore Unitarian Church, 12700 SE 32nd Street, Bellevue, WA 98005 on January 23rd, 2010 at 2:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be made with a donation to the charity of your choice in Glover's memory. You may rest in peace Dad; you're with Mother in eternity now. Sign Glover's on-line Guest Book at www.Legacy.comTo plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Glover Barnes
January 23, 2010
I first met Glover in Boston in 1969, when we were both attending the General Assembly of the Unitarian Universalist Association. It was a time of considerable divisiveness, with dissent raging not only between races, but within them.
There were very few voices of reason to be heard.
And then there was Glover. He never attacked, but he never took a backward step.
It was, to quote some movie or other, the beginning of a beautiful friendship. We met frequently during these past forty years - most often during my two years as interim minister of the East Shore Unitarian Church in Bellevue, Washington.
One of the most remarkable things about Glover was that no matter how much time had elapsed between our meetings, our conversations began as though we had never been apart. He was always the same wonderful Glover.
Miriam was a spectacular bonus we all got as a result of knowing Glover.
Damn. I miss them both.
Bob Kaufmann
Bob Kaufmann
January 23, 2010
I first met Glover in Boston in 1969, when we were both attending the General Assembly of the Unitarian Universalist Association. It was a time of considerable divisiveness, with dissent raging not only between races, but within them.
There were very few voices of reason to be heard.
And then there was Glover. He never attacked, but he never took a backward step.
It was, to quote some movie or other, the beginning of a beautiful friendship. We met frequently during these past forty years - most often during my two years as interim minister of the East Shore Unitarian Church in Bellevue, Washington.
One of the most remarkable things about Glover was that no matter how much time had elapsed between our meetings, our conversations began as though we had never been apart. He was always the same wonderful Glover.
Miriam was a spectacular bonus we all got as a result of knowing Glover.
Damn. I miss them both.
Bob Kaufmann
January 23, 2010
Glover and I worked together in Mount Baker Community Club and on Seafare in the early 1970's. He was a great mentor for growing up and becoming a responsible citizen. I have great memories.
James B. Stipes
Linda Iltis
January 23, 2010
Dear Noel, Eric and family,
Glover was such a wonderful compassionate person. I feel very fortunate to have had the opportunity to meet him and work with him as a colleague and to have received his encouragement to fight the good fight. He is near and dear to me and many other faculty at UW. His friendship and strong support these past two years as Chair of Committee A in AAUP has been and will continue to be a source of great inspiration and faith in humanity. I pray his reunion with Miriam will bring him eternal peace and happiness. His life is a wonderful blessing to us all, and I will miss him deeply.
Mac and Gayle Lopez
January 23, 2010
Dear Noel and family,
You are in our thoughts and prayers at this difficult time. May God bless you and may your memories comfort you.
Linda Chalker-Scott
January 23, 2010
Glover was a lifeline for me while I battled with issues of academic freedom and intellectual property. He and the rest of Committee A shepherded my case to national, and eventually I was allowed to publish the disputed work. I got my first set of books from the printer on Dec. 18 - two days before Glover passed away. He truly cared about my case and occasionally would call to encourage me during the process. I will miss him terribly.
Donne Young
January 22, 2010
Brother Dr. Glover Barnes was an ardent supporter of The Alpha Literary Society, established by Brothers of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Zeta Pi Lambda Chapter. When I last spoke with him prior to the Christmas holidays he indicated that he had two papers under consideration to deliver to the Alpha Literary Society at The Rainier Club in Seattle. His genious will certainly be missed.
January 22, 2010
I met Glover about 18 years ago , we were both recruiting and encouraging the Black males in the Seattle area to get examined for prostate cancer. We were also trying to educate them(Black males) the importance of early dectection and the benefits that it meant for thier health. We were both recruiting human subject for Michael Brawer at that time: and continued to do so long after Dr Brawer left his Position at the University of Washington. I will miss him deeply for we became great friends and great working buddies . I always felt that he was there for me. During the last year he began to miss his late wife Miriam and spoke of her very often. I am happy and very greatful to have had the privilage to meet a great couple like Miram and Glover. To Noel and Eric, your father was an excellent roll model for the men in the Black community. I will miss him more than you will ever know. (former colleauge and friend) Irvin L . Williams
Guy Selvaggio
January 21, 2010
I met Dr. Glover and Miriam about 12 years ago when my partner and I became their handymen at their residence. I can honestly say that they were the most kind, generous and truly loving couple that I have ever met. I will greatly miss Glover's wonderful smile, genuine concern about my life and the many conversations we had over the years especially about politics which he was so passionate about. It was an honor knowing both of them.
David Loud
January 21, 2010
My condolences to Dr. Barnes' family. I had the honor of getting to know him a bit through several conversations about healthcare reform during 2009 - an issue he had very strong convictions about. As community liaison for Congressman Jim McDermott, I also learned about his adminiration for Dr. Barnes and their friendship. I hope the family's grief will soon be outweighed by feelings of gratitude for his life and all it made possible.
Marietta Foubert
January 21, 2010
Our dear friend's humor, forgiveness, and generosity were expressed with compassion and sensitive understanding. He was a great community leader and an advocate for positive, timely, on-going social changes. We must continue his humanitarian spirit and express his special energy for the community.
January 20, 2010
Eric, we were saddened at hearing the news of your father's death. I know this is a hard time for you and your family. Please know that we are thinking of you.
Larry and Nelta
John Barber
January 20, 2010
My earliest recollection of Glover was his advocacy role in protesting the redlining of the Central Area and other parts of Seattle by the insurance industry, back in the early 1970s.
His graceful and eloquent expressions of indignation about various civic travesties wedded me to involvement in the Central Seattle Community Council Federation for some three-plus decades (until I had meeting conflicts).
The way he communicated was with such a gentle, direct style that whenever I think of him. I smile.
Rest well, dear friend!
John Sellars
January 20, 2010
My deepest condolences to you and your family Erik regarding the loss of your father. Although I never met him, you have been a wonderful friend and his spirit has been extended to me through you. Take care.
Denby Barnett
January 19, 2010
Glover was a rock on whom many of us relied. To work with one so well tuned to justice and so adamant in its pursuit was both an honor and a pleasure. Never reluctant to speak truth to power but disinclined to posturing, he was always more determined to fix problems than to fix blame and more anxious to make progress than take credit. Composed of equal parts integrity, courage, good will, good judgement and good humor, he was a man it was a privilege to have known. He is missed.
Brian Derdowski
January 19, 2010
Dr. Glover Barnes graced every meeting with his good judgment and constancy. His activism was informed by a world view that saw connections others missed. That view included protecting the environment and controling urban growth and sprawl. Your family can be very proud. Brian Derdowski, King County Councilman 1990-2000
Alan Deright
January 19, 2010
Glover and Miriam hosted the annual Seattle Community Council Federation potluck picnics and annual meetings at their home for many years. He greatly enjoyed the bottles of Port provided by this non-chef as we washed down some Chicken Adobo and other delicacies together. Glover was born 3 days after my own father Harvey Deright who passed away in 1979. May we all remember our departed family members, friends, and neighbors.
Lorie Lucky
January 17, 2010
I worked with Dr. Barnes briefly in the 1990's, and consequently became good friends with him and his wife. The UW Medical School and the Department of Urology were better places because Glover was there, whether they wanted to admit it, or not. Glover and Miriam were great political activists, and one wonders how they were able to accomplish so many things, along with always being so hospitable and ready with a laugh.
Glover will be missed, but his work will go on through the many people who were inspired by him.
Christopher Cave
January 15, 2010
I am saddened that I never had the opportunity to meet this great and loving man, the father of my good friend, Erik. But, through his son, I can glean a glimpse of what a great man he truely was, and I can attest that Dr. Barnes has left living proof of his greatness with us in the form the values, beliefs, creativity and basic humanity of his progeny.
Sue Calvin
January 13, 2010
I knew Dr Barnes through his son Noel and daughter-in-law Nancy. Glover always made their home open to anyone who entered, which was an extention of his very open heart. When he greeted you and asked how you were, he really wanted to know what was going on in your life. The warmth of his hugs and show of concern felt like my own father's, whom I lost over 40 years ago. Although I didn't spend alot of time with Glover, I will always remember those tiny sparkling moments. It was always a pleasure to be in his presence.
Stephen Hilbert
January 11, 2010
Dr. Barnes was always so warm and gracious. He would light up a room with his smile and make you feel welcome in his presence. He and my father enjoyed many conversations together. He was there and was very supportive to both my mother and me when my father passed away. Dr. Barnes will be missed by the many wonderful people that were so proud to know him. I include myself in that group of lucky people
Steve Hauschka
January 11, 2010
News of Glover's passing came as a great shock. Glover was such a vibrant and caring individual, and so genuinely passionate throughout his entire life concerning equal rights, that it is difficult to imagine the loss of his lifetime of wisdom. His unswerving commitment to human justice was an inspiration to all. Glover combined these activities with being one of the early pioneers in characterizing the protein antigens of the human prostate gland, a field that eventually resulted in the development of strategies for prostatic tumor diagnostics. The University of Washington, Seattle, and the World are better for Glover's many tireless contributions.
Steve Hauschka, Professor of Biochemistry, University of Washington
January 11, 2010
I remember Dr. Barnes was generous of his experience and his time to help me with community health issues when called upon. I smile at the thought of some of those meetings. God Bless,
Eudora Lowery Carter, Seattle
Leslie Clement
January 10, 2010
Because my mother (Pat Clement) and Katie & Duane Dolan were friends I was fortunate enough to meet Glover and Miriam many years ago.
They were both an inspiration and proof that when you turn around to face the creature making the giant shadow, you are more than likely to find out it is just a little mouse.
I always appreciated both their sense of purpose and their sense of humor. Upon first meeting them there was such an appearance of polarity - until you saw them smile at each other. They both radiated a warmth that filled the area surrounding them. I will miss the warmth they shared - and I will miss greeting Glover and having his massive hand clasp mine and have the sense that he was really glad to see me.
Peter Roman
January 10, 2010
My condolences to the Barnes family on the passing of a remarkable man and the completion of a remarkable life. I read Dr. Barnes' obituary in the Seattle Times today and could not help but notice some poignant similarities with my own father's life.
They were born in the same year; my father 10 days later than Dr. Barnes. They also passed away on the same day of the year; December 20th, (albeit 23 years apart). My father was born in Montreal, Canada the son of a ground-breaking black Canadian MD. His mother, a white woman, progressive beyond the era, was from Nova Scotia. I think my grandparents were both way ahead of their times.
There are a couple of other similarities I really enjoyed discovering. Like Dr. Barnes, my father rose to the heights of his chosen profession, attaining status at the Board level of a multi-national oil company. This was in an era predating the Civil Rights Act. I can remember clearly being counselled by my mother to not let my father's ethnicity become public! It is such a positive that those days of secrecy are behind us. My father accomplished a lot thanks to his love of education and his drive. It is clear that the same was true of Dr. Barnes. Lastly, like Dr Barnes, our family attended a Unitarian church for most of our years in the household.
I thank Dr. Barnes for reminding me of my father and I thank him for reminding me that the circumstances you are born into and the challenges you face can be overcome towards a truly full and rewarding life.
My best wishes to your entire family.
January 10, 2010
I've known Bro. Dr. Glover Barnes for many years as a fraternity brother of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. His life was the epitome of what the fraternity is about - "Scholarship, Manly Deeds and Love for All Mankind". While a gentle giant of a man, he was a strong supporter of the underdog, proponent of educating our youth and champion of civil rights for all. He will be sorely missed. May God grant comfort to the family at this time.
Kenneth Poston, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., Issaquah, Washington
Colleen Daley
January 10, 2010
Erik,Noel
I am truly saddened by learning about the loss of your wonderful father and I was also sad when I learned of your mother's passing. Their love story of 56 years was awe inspiring.
When I was a teenager I was greatly
influenced by both of them to get an education and make a difference with my life.I hope they would be glad I choose the medical field.
I learned from them about uncondtional love and the importance of laughter in a (sometimes)difficult world.
I thank them both from the bottom of my heart and may their journey never be forgotten.
Sincerly and with fond memories
Colleen Daley
January 9, 2010
Farewell Glover! I met Glover and his wife Miriam shortly after they moved to Seattle in 1976. He was very strong in championing diversity and civil rights. Through his entire career he was relentless in his advocacy of diversity and civil rights. In Glover's death, we have lost one of the strongest voices for diversity, civil rights, and social justice at the UW. May he rest in peace.
Lois Price Spratlen, University Ombudsman Emeritus, UW
January 9, 2010
Put academic before the words freedom, integrity and fairness and you get a sense of why I will remember Glover as a true academic warrior. He fought the good fight so persistently and valiently that he was a hero to many of us at the UW. He took on and stood his ground (and sometimes even won) against many different powerful administrators at the UW. He also simply outlasted many of his adversaries. The AAUP in particular and the UW community generally has lost a warrior that you could always count on in the heat of our struggles.
Thad Spratlen, Professor Emeritus of Marketing, UW (and like Glover a community and political activist on and off campus).
Stewart & Calhoun Funeral Home
January 9, 2010
Offering our deepest condolences during this difficult time.
Keith Hoeller
January 9, 2010
Glover's passing is a sad day for all of those who loved freedom and justice. He was a champion of academic freedom, and a supporter of underdogs of all stripes.
For years the Washington state chapter of the American Association of University Professors met several times a year at Glover's Mount Baker home. He was a gentle man indeed, with a glowing passion for justice.
Glover was a man who made a difference in the world, and he will be missed by all of those he touched.
January 9, 2010
I have had the privilege of working with Dr. Barnes for several years at UW in the context of his service to the American Association of University Professors. We will miss him, and his principled and passionate advocacy for what is right. Sincere condolences to his family.
Janelle S. Taylor
Associate Professor of Anthropology
and President, AAUP-UW chapter,
University of Washington
Bill Couser
January 9, 2010
I knew Glover only as a fellow traveller in the trip from the 12th floor of the BB tower at UWMC to the S1 parking lot many evenings over 24 years. However, those frequent encounters, and his wisdom, humility, perspective and cheer, became real highlights of my UW work life. A truly unforgettable figure who taught even the most casual of acquaintances - it was an honor and delight to know him.
Bill Couser (Professor of Medicine,retired)
Desi Seefeld
January 9, 2010
What a wonderful inspirational man who touched the lives of many, Dr. Barnes will be missed. My family and I are happy to have crossed the path of one so gifted. May God bless the Barnes children and family who are in our thoughts and prayers.
Fred, Desi and the extended Seefeld Family
Stephanie Hilbert
January 9, 2010
It was a joy and honor to be in the company of Glover and Miriam. They always lifted the spirits of all around them. They will be cherished and remembered.
Penny Jensen
January 9, 2010
Hi, I worked for Dr. Barnes in the late 60's, early 70's as his lab tech at the University of Washington. It was wonderful knowing him and his wife Miriam. I was one of those whom he inspired to "better themselves." He gave me the opportunity to work in his lab when I had no prior lab experience. It was the step I needed to go on into higher education and ultimately achieve success in the working world. Dr. Barnes and I went skiing once. We were using the rope tow. I was on my way up with several other skiers in front of me, when I saw this huge black man come barreling down the hill running into several skiers. Fortunately no one was was hurt, but a bunch of us were scattered all over the ground. It may not sound funny, but at the time, it was hilarious. He had a wonderful heart, and was great to work for. I'm happy he lived such a long life. Penny Janof (Jensen)
Kae Ellingsen
January 9, 2010
Dr. Barnes was such a nice person! He was my "elevator buddy". We met many times in the BB elevator in the Health Sciences Building where we had many good conversations.
You are all in my thoughts and prayers.
Kae Ellingsen
Orthopaedics
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