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Philip BARKER Obituary
October 16, 1929 – September 20, 2015
Born in Whitstable, England. The son of a country doctor, Philip followed his father into the medical profession, graduating from The University of London in 1953. Upon graduation, he joined the British Army where he met and married Heather with whom he had four children, Edmund, Elsa, Lorna and Alice. His distinguished career as a psychiatrist, lecturer and author, brought him to Canada in 1975. In 1980, he moved to Calgary to work as head of psychiatry at the Alberta Children's Hospital. On sabbatical in Swaziland he met his second wife Thembi and she and their son Sibu moved to Canada shortly thereafter. Philip's passion for jazz music started at a very early age and never waned, culminating in him having a long standing radio show on CJSW entitled "Jazz Focus" which was also the name of his recording company that published music of many talented jazz musicians. Struggling with addictions, Philip became a lifelong member of Narcotics Anonymous and gave a great deal of his time and knowledge to the organization. Philip was predeceased by his daughter Elsa and both of his wonderful wives. Funeral to be held at Christ Church Anglican 3602 8 Street SW on October 3, 2015 at 2 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Narcotics Anonymous.
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16 Entries
BrendaLee (Higgins) Couillard
February 1, 2016
I would like to express my deepest condolences. I recently moved to Alberta from NB (and previously Ontario where I was fostered as a teen by him and his family - a pivotal time in my life). Upon looking on the internet I found this four months too late. I'm so sorry for your loss.
S. N.
December 15, 2015
Dr. Barker was my first therapist. As a young patient, I felt heard out, hopeful, and at ease. He may have had his own troubles, but he sure translated them into empathy. I only hope he knew how much I appreciated his guidance -.-
Jeff Chang
December 4, 2015
I had the great pleasure of working on the 6th edition of Basic Family Therapy with Philip. We met to talk about the progress of our writing, and ended off with my hearing many of Philip's interesting stories about being a doctor with the British Army, sabbatical travels in Africa, psychiatric training at "Old Bedlam," and jazz. Thanks, Philip
October 3, 2015
Working with Philip was one of the highlights of my working life at Alberta Children's Hospital. I learned a lot from him and will always remember his commitment to his profession. Kathy C
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Jill Drader
October 3, 2015
I heard today of Philip's passing while in the rooms he frequented. Sadly I cannot attend today's memorial- and I would like the family to know this man had an immense Impact on my life personally and professionally. Rest in peace Sir, I will see you on the other side. - Jill Drader
September 28, 2015
I was a young clinical Psychologist when I was hired at ACH. Philip taught me more about working effectively and efficiently with children and their families than I had learned in 5 years of grad school. I became all too aware of his personal struggles, but whom amongst us hasn't struggled ? I will always be grateful for his mentorship and shared leadership of MH services at ACH. He did much good over many years of service. My condolences to all.
R P
September 28, 2015
Condolences to the family as Philip will be missed.I am grateful for the time and conversations were were able to share.
Claire McMordie
September 27, 2015
Heather and Philip were the best next-door neighbours anyone could have. Michael and I will always remember both of them. Philip was a thoughtful and devoted friend and neighbour.
Tim Yates
September 27, 2015
Philip was a committed, skilled, knowledgeable, and compassionate colleague. He contributed enormously to his profession and his speciality. We are the richer for his life and the poorer for his loss.
Monna R.
September 26, 2015
My deepest condolences to the entire family.
September 26, 2015
Philip Barker was a mentor and friend.
He lived a worthy life.I'll always remember him.
Cindy McLeod
September 26, 2015
Philip was an integral part of the CJSW family as an informed and passionate jazz host. His contributions to the jazz scene will never be forgotten. My deepest condolences to his family.
Tom Atkinson
September 26, 2015
Sorry to hear of the loss of an inspirational broadcaster. Warmest regards, Tom Atkinson.
kerry clarke
September 25, 2015
Lorna and Alice - my condolences. Philip's knowledge of, and passion for, jazz was unmatched and he was an important programmer on CJSW Radio. I will be out of town next Saturday so will miss the funeral, but will be thinking about you.
A.J.
September 25, 2015
My thoughts and prayers are with the family. Philip was a special person, he will be greatly missed. RIP my friend.
Nicole B
September 25, 2015
His kindly tone and extensive musical knowledge will be greatly missed on the radio. Great condolences to his family and friends.
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