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BARBER; John Philip


It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of John Philip (Phil) Barber on February 8, 2016, in Mission, BC, at the age of 96. Phil was born to Anne and Albert Barber on December 3, 1919, in Edmonton, Alberta, and was the youngest of four children. Phil joined the RCAF in 1941 and rose to the rank of Sargeant. He met the love of his life, Mabel Larson, who was in the Women's Air Corps. They married in 1943 in Trenton, Ontario, and had four children. Throughout Phil's career as an Instrument Electrician he was fortunate enough to reside in Alberta, BC, Nova Scotia, the UK, and Germany. Following his military career Phil served as an orderly at Shaughnessy Veteran's Hospital in Vancouver. Phil always had a passion for travel, cars, camping, the movies, collecting coins and stamps, playing cards, sweets, and hockey. His sense of humor and quiet manner were treasured by those knew him.

Family was very important in his life. Phil will be lovingly remembered by his children Gordon (Suzanne) of Victoria, BC, Carol Boucher (Eric) of Williams Lake, BC, and Robert (Judith) of Moose Jaw, SK. He was predeceased by his eldest son Phil in 2005, his wife Mabel in 2006, and his granddaughter Katherine in 1999. He is survived by his 16 grandchildren; Shelley Evans (Baron Selman), Robin Riddle (Jason), Kim Shimbashi (George), Lani Morrow (Ryan), Amanda Barber, Melissa Barber (Steve Hampton), Ashley Clifford, Stephen Clifford (Lesley), Wesley Barber (Alyssa Castle), Tyler Boucher (Jill), Tracy Boucher, Yvon Malenfant (Michelle Soo-Yeoun), Bernaie Read (Robert), Jerome Malenfant, Paul Hills (Christa), and Kristy Hills Craig (Garth). As well, he leaves his incredible mark on life with 35 great grandchildren and 6 great-great grandchildren. In keeping with Phil's wishes, cremation has already taken place and a Celebration of Life will be held in Kelowna, BC, on July 8, 2016 at 1:00 pm at the Kelowna Memorial Park Cemetery, 1991 Bernard Avenue, Kelowna, BC. In lieu of flowers, if friends so desire, donations in memory of Phil may be made to a charity of one's choice or to TRIM (The Residence in Mission), 7324 Hurd Street, Mission, BC V2V 3H5. The family would like to extend a heartfelt thanks to the Nurses and Care-Aides at TRIM (Hatzic) who provided compassionate care to Phil during his stay there.



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