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Russell Barber Obituary

Russell Barber, beloved father, husband, son, brother, musician and friend passed away after a lengthy, private and brave battle with cancer. Russell was born in Dallas but moved to San Jose in 1970. He is succeeded by his loving wife, Adrienne, and their daughter, Rose, as well as his parents, Paula and Steve Barber and brother Tom Barber.Russell essentially taught himself to play guitar, progressing easily from "garage bands" to paying "gigs". His goal was to energize the "roots blues" segment of that genre throughout the south Bay. He became a respected blues vocalist as well as guitarist, songwriter, and soon organized his own Russell Barber Band, joining other local musicians in playing at venues like San Jose's Poor House Bistro. Additionally, Russell spent a career working in technical writing and as a marketing manager.Always upbeat, Russell invariably displayed the positive attitude required to be a social organizer and true friend. When things got tough, he excelled at quelling the conflict with his calm disposition. Proud father and husband, Russell created a loving and peaceful home for his wife, Adrienne, and daughter Rose. He filled his life with music, travel, parties and love. He was a strong, moral, loving, funny, and truly incredible person . He will be sorely missed.After cremation, a private ocean scattering of ashes remembrance will be held. To extend Russell's memory, donations to the Poor House Bistro wouldbe appreciated.

To plant trees in memory, please visit theĀ Sympathy Store.

Published by Mercury News on Jul. 9, 2023.

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4 Entries

Chris Davis

August 8, 2023

Russell played guitar for my brothers band Powerhouse Blues. I will always remember how humble he was. He always played such smooth tasteful licks on his guitar. His smile was so infectious too! Godspeed to you Russell, glad to have crossed paths with you!

sally and paul hoffman

July 10, 2023

We will always remember your beautiful wedding at the lighthouse on the California coast and Russell playing the guitar borrowed from Tim Noah at the Thumbnail Theater in Snohomish.

Maria Stern

July 9, 2023

Sending you love and strength in this very very difficult time. Russell was a wonderful example for everyone who knew him much love to Adrienne and Rose, and Russell“s parents, and brother

Joni Taylor

July 9, 2023

Grief can be so hard, but our special memories help us cope. Sending so much love and light from TN for Adrienne & Rose, Paula & Steve.
It was such an honor for Russell to play me down the aisle on our wedding day He's a remarkable man and so loved.

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