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With heavy hearts, the family wish to announce the passing of Albert (Bert) Barker on Friday December 1, 2023, at Stedman Community Hospice in Brantford. Surrounded by his family, Bert passed away peacefully knowing how much he was loved. Bert was born in 1944 in Toronto. Predeceased by his parents Grant & Nita Barker, infant children Andrew and Elizabeth, sister-in-law Eleanora and brother-in-law Doug. Bert’s legacy will be proudly carried on by Sonja (nee Brandt), his high school sweetheart and cherished wife of 57 years, his grateful children Heather (Guy) and Aaron (Julie) and his beloved granddaughter Hayley (Max). Memories of Bert will carry on in the stories told by his dear sisters Bette (Brian), Ann, Mary (Al), brother Dan (Stella) and sister-in-law Jean (Skip). Uncle Bert will be deeply missed by many nieces, nephews, and their families.
Educated at the University of Guelph, Bert began his career at the family dairy farm in Burford. His deep roots and lifelong love for agriculture were very precious to him. He held multiple roles over the years in sports retail, insurance & property management. A savvy businessman, Bert is perhaps best remembered for his ownership and operation of the Stan’s Variety Plaza in the north end of Brantford.
Generous and community-minded, Bert frequently volunteered his time and energy. Participation House, Brantford Kiwanis Club and the Ontario Hockey Association were just a few of the organizations he proudly contributed to. Bert joined the Masonic Fraternity in 1974 and held multiple leadership positions and degrees including election as Grand Senior Warden for Grand Lodge Canada, Scottish Rite and was awarded the Supreme Council 33 degree. In 1996 he was inducted into the Royal Order of Scotland.
Whether as an athlete, coach or spectator, sports were a big part of his life. A walking encyclopedia of history, facts and strategy, Bert loved to discuss sports, especially his beloved Cincinnati Reds.
Through all areas of his life, Bert made long-lasting and cherished friendships. He was a wonderful storyteller, quick witted, curious, and uncommonly kind. In his rich and full life Bert’s greatest love and pride was for his family.
Friends will be received at the Keith Ovington Funeral Home, 134 King Street, Burford on Wednesday from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. A Celebration of Bert’s Life will be held on Thursday December 7, 2023 at 1:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations to Stedman Community Hospice or to your local SPCA would be gratefully appreciated by the family. www.keithovington.ca Keith Ovington 519-449-1112.
A heartfelt thank you to the incredible team and volunteers at Stedman Community Hospice where
Bert and his family received wonderful support, compassion, and care.
You are all angels on earth, and we are so grateful.
December 1 2023
Death notice for the town of: Burford, Province: Ontario
death notice Albert Arthur Bert Barker December 1 2023
obituaries notice Albert Arthur Bert Barker December 1 2023
We offer our deepest sympathies to the family and friends of Albert Arthur Bert Barker December 1 2023 and hope that their memory may be a source of comfort during this difficult time. Your thoughts and kind words are greatly appreciated.
