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BORN
1929
DIED
2011
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JOEL BARBER Obituary
He was born on November 25, 1929 in Spokane to Joel Allen and Katharine (O'Neill) Barber. The family moved to Seattle, where he was raised, attended school, and graduated from Roosevelt High School in 1947.
He married Antonnia Elaine Hey on December 18, 1965 in Chehalis, WA.
He received his Bachelor's Degree in Education at Western Washington University, Master's in Education Administration at Seattle University, Master's in General Administration at Stanford University, and Doctorate in Education Administration at the University of Washington. From 1953-1983 he worked in the Seattle Public Schools as a Science Department Chairman, Vice Principal, Negotiations/ Staff Relations, and District Hearing Officer.
At Blaine and Thompson Junior High Schools, he planned, prepared and hosted a half-hour weekly science program, "Science is Fun" for junior high school students on Channel 9 TV for two years. In 1956, he was a Fulbright Exchange Teacher to England in Scunthorpe, England. During his residency in England, he was invited to Buckingham Palace for a luncheon reception with The Queen Mother. Upon retiring from Seattle Public Schools, he worked for Toni Barber Travel, Inc. as an accountant for 16 years.
His wife, Toni, and he traveled extensively to different countries in the world. He especially enjoyed the cruise trips.
He joined the U.S. Army in 1949, and served in the reserves until 1978, retiring with the rank of Lt. Colonel. He served as a Headquarters Battery Commander, Director of Operations and Training, Director of Logistics, Chief Evaluator, and as an ROTC Instructor.
He is survived by his wife of 45 years, Antonnia; son, Joel Barber III of Mount Vernon; daughter, Sheli Barber (Jerry) of Mercer Island; and two grandsons, Tyler and Aidan Cardoso.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Wednesday, April 20, 2011 at 1:00 pm at the Eaglemont Golf Club.
You may share your memories of Joel, and sign his online guest register at www.kernfuneralhome.com Arrangements are under the care of Kern Funeral Home.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for JOEL BARBER
Janet Little
January 15, 2024
I was in his 8th grade science class in 1955. Great science teacher. We learned first aid and his method of teaching was easy to understand. He also was in Roosevelt High when my husband was a sophomore in Science and math classes. Mr Barber has a great background and was a dedicated educator. Rest in Peace Mr Barber from your student who is now 82 years old. Janet Little
April 18, 2011
Toni,Sheli, and J.B.
My thoughts and prayers are with you, Joel was an honest up-standing caring man that anyone would have been proud to call friend. He will be missed by but not forgotten. Day by Day it gets easier. Tracye
Bob Crosetto
April 17, 2011
I did my student teaching under Joel at Catherine Blaine Jr. High in Magnolia. He was a great mentor and coach to me and we became great friends. Joel had great rapport with his students and we often played basketball with them. I have many fond memories of our time together and I'm sure he has many former students who feel the same way.
Glen & Penny Jacobson
April 16, 2011
Toni, Sheli and Joel; Our deepest condolences to all of you. We really enjoyed Joel's company and visits and wish the very best for your families future.
Penny and Glen Jacobson (Camano Island)
Barb &Tom Thommen
April 15, 2011
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Patty Graham
April 14, 2011
My condolences, sweetie. He was a very impressive looking man! Never got to meet him or your mom, but they had a wonderful daughter! Tight hug!
From Patty (Graham) Turpin, Longview, Wa.
Steve Marriott
April 14, 2011
Toni, Sheli and Joel. My deepest condolences to your family. You can rest assured that he is in a much better place without pain. Perhaps I will get to meet him. Be well and stay in touch.
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