Obituary Overview
Desmond “Norman” Barke
Dad passed away peacefully on Monday, February 12, 2018 at Deer Lodge Centre. He was predeceased by his parents, brothers Eric and Ron, wife Peggy, son Bruce, and daughter Brenda Fontaine. Left to cherish his memory is his youngest daughter Bev Wallis (Brad), son-in-law Robert Fontaine, grand-children Heather (Ryan), Samantha, Monique (Cory), Michelle (Steve), four great grand-children, and one great-great-grandchild to arrive any day now.
Dad was born in Winnipeg on August 5, 1924 to Olive and Fred Barker, the second of four children. He was raised in St. Boniface and after finishing school went to work for Kiewel Brewery until he was 18 and enlisted in the Canadian Air Force in 1942. After the war, he arrived home to Winnipeg and his job at Kiewel Brewery.
He met my mom out at Winnipeg Beach and they were married in 1947. They were married for 59 years, until her passing from Alzheimer’s in 2006. They lived in St. Vital and raised three children. Dad’s love for his family was beyond measure. There was nothing he wouldn’t do for his family. He was extremely proud of all his grandchildren and he was the center of all their lives.
Dad loved the outdoors, whether it was gardening, fishing, hunting, or just puttering in his yard. He spent his childhood summers at Winnipeg Beach and it was his favorite place to spend time. Everyone who met dad took a liking to him right away. He was an extremely kind person and spoke well of everyone.
Dad was proud of his Irish roots, so as we say good-bye we offer this Irish Blessing.
May the road rise to meet you,
may the wind be ever at your back.
May the sun shine warm upon your face,
and the rains fall soft upon your fields.
And until we meet again,
may God hold you in the palm of his hand.
Cremation has taken place and a private interment will follow.
Our most sincere sympathies to the family and friends of Desmond Norman Barke 2018.source
Death notice for the town of: Winnipeg, Province: Manitoba