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Don BARKER Obituary
After a long and fulfilling life, Don died peacefully in the early morning of Tuesday, November 22, 2016 at the age of 86. He was born in Edmonton, Alberta in 1929 and spent most of his adult life working and raising his family in the Vancouver area. Left to cherish his memory is his wife of 66 years, Gisele, and their four daughters - Lynda Barker, Margaret Stirling (Ian), Beverly Barker, and Jocelyn Campbell (Jim). Don was fondly known as Papa by his five grandchildren - Scott (Jennifer), Karis, Bryce, Michelle, and Quinn. He is survived by his brother Kenn (Reta) and leaves behind many extended family members that he cherished. In the early 1960s, Don moved to the coast to work in the elevator business later to become a co-owner in Northern West Elevators. He was a respected business man with a strong work ethic. An early love of all sports grew to be a dedicated career in football. His involvement was marked by his noted dedication to meaningful leadership and achievement. He was a CFL field official #26 for twenty-one years followed by CFL supervisory positions and various roles in the BC football community. He was inducted to the CFL Hall of Fame in 1999, recognized as a Builder by The BC Football Hall of Fame in 2015, and a supporter of amateur sport through Football BC. Though accomplishments were numerous, Don's greatest pride was his children and grandchildren. Living in an all female home was no easy feat but he managed with humour and love. To his grandchildren, he was the world's best Papa. He always had time to chat, have tea, discuss politics, read The Night Before Christmas, and was beyond supportive. As per Don's request, a private family service will be held. The family is so appreciative of the many prayers and kind thoughts that have been sent their way. Don was always a quiet supporter of those in need. In keeping with that spirit, in lieu of flowers please support the less fortunate through a charity of your choice. "We love you Don, Dad, Papa ~ You will be in our hearts forever"
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10 Entries
Arnold Nesdoly
December 2, 2016
What a shock to see Don's passing announcement before the Grey Cup game, but so fitting as well. I consider it a privilege to call Don my friend!! What a help he was to me and BC Junior football!!!! My condolences to his wife and family. Arnold Nesdoly-Past President BCFC
Jack Covey
November 28, 2016
Condolences to the Barker family .I had the privilege to have worked with Don on the BCFC Board. It as a honor to have known such a great man who had given so much to the game I am going to miss him and the meetings we had with Norm Jones and Red .Don was a real gentleman and brought a lot of common sense to the table .I am going to miss his friendship
Pat Leibel
November 28, 2016
I met Don while he was working with my dad Charlie Leibel. I admired him as being cool under pressure and helped me become a student of the game
Dave Yule
November 28, 2016
A friend, a mentor and true gentleman. Thanks Bark!
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Bill Harcourt
November 28, 2016
So sorry to hear of Don's passing. Don hired me to officiate for the CFL in 1989. He was a great man who inspired his staff by leading by example. He had a way of correcting you without you feeling chastised and left you feeling good about yourself. At the time their were about 30 million people in Canada and 30 officials on the CFL panel. He would point out often that we were 1 in a million. He knew how to get the best out of people by treating them as an equal, not a subordinate. Don was the best boss I ever had before and after my CFL days. I have thought about him often and tried to lead those under me using Don's methods. My condolences to the family.
Alan Brose
November 27, 2016
My condolences to the Barker family at this time on your loss. I went to BCIT with Lynda many years ago and I do recall how proud of her Dad she was.
michelle arklie
November 27, 2016
I am sorry to hear that you loss
I heard it from cfl league
Paul Shortt
November 27, 2016
I am so sorry to hear of the passing of Don. When I first met Don, I knew someone special had entered my life. He brought an outside view to what we were trying to achieve in the British Columbia Football Conference. His knowledge went far beyond the football spectrum and he helped the BCFC grow. His sense of humour and desire to do the right thing for the BCFC was always up front. I recall being at a BCFC / BCFOA gathering and Don was speaking to the officials. Along with the usual talk of knowing your assignments etc., he asked how many had opened their equipment bag since the last season. Then he said how many of you have taken your shoes out and polished them. That has always stuck with me, the little details of doing things right and taken pride in what you do. I've always looked at things and asked myself, have you learned anything new today. Being with and talking to Don, I learned something new everyday. He challenged me to be better at how I engaged the league and to make sure the big picture was front and center. Earlier this year we were on the BCFC Rules and Discipline Committee and every time we talked it was good to catch up while still looking at the case presented. I'm going to miss his friendship, wit and overall approach to seeing football move forward in a positive way. Thank you Don.
November 27, 2016
Don was a true gentleman. A wonderful man who will be missed by all who knew him. My deepest sympathy to his family at this sad time.
Ruth Ferne, a football friend
Colleen Mulhern
November 26, 2016
Don was a great friend to my father and family. The stories and memories from their times in the Canadian Football League are legend. Don, Giselle and family, you will always hold a special place in our hearts.
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