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Alexander Patrick Barnard Mar. 15, 1987 - Aug. 24, 2012 Alex was born in Tacoma to parents Brian Barnard and Linda King, the youngest son in a large family with four brothers and two sisters. Despite his untimely passing, Alex will always remain a cherished son and grandson, beloved brother, and dear friend to all who knew him. As residents of Anderson Island, Alex attended Steilacoom High School with his brother Chris, graduating with the class of 2005. He was a highly gifted athlete in both wrestling and football; a formidable defensive lineman and champion wrestler who placed in State Mat Classics as a Junior and Senior. His athletic prowess and physique was dwarfed only by his legendary appetite for home-cooked food, a warm sense of humor, and a talent for making anyone smile. He believed in helping others and practiced random acts of kindness daily. Alex married A.I. resident Sara Smith in 2006 and attended Murray State University in Kentucky, earning his national EMT certification. He moved back to Tacoma in 2009 to pursue a career in Fire Sciences, graduated from Fire Academy in 2010, and volunteered countless hours at West Thurston Fire Dept. A talented cook, he worked at the Harmon and often served holiday meals to the homeless. A gentle spirit, Alex especially loved family, children, and animals. His hobbies were hiking and photography. He aspired to finish his degree and become a teacher. Most recently Alex lived in Lacey, where he worked at the Olive Garden and loved visiting the Nisqually Wildlife Reserve. His last visit there was with his mother, stepfather, and cameras, and remains a cherished memory. Alex is survived by his parents Linda and Kevin King, and Doctors Brian and Denise Barnard; his six siblings, Christian Cryder, Nori Hawkins, Jacob Cryder, Nicholas Cryder, Jessica Fortescue and Christopher Barnard; brothers Victor and Oliver Barnard; grandparents Archie and Neva Barnard; grandfather Clifford Balster; and countless nieces, nephews, and relatives who all loved him. A private funeral will be held at New Tacoma Cemetery. A public memorial to celebrate the life of Alex Barnard will be held on Sept. 15, 2012 at The Olympia Center, from 2-4 pm, in downtown Olympia, 222 Columbia St. NW. All are welcome. Donations in lieu of flowers can be made to the Friends of Nisqually National Wildlife Reserve, Tacoma Rescue Mission, or the Humane Society. Please visit www.newtacoma.com to sign the guestbook.
Published in News Tribune (Tacoma) on September 9, 2012
