In Memory Of

Gordon Leonard Barker

Feb 12, 1931 - Oct 28, 2025

Obituary

Gordon Barker, aged 94, passed peacefully and with dignity, surrounded by family, in the early quiet hours of October 28th.

Gordon was born in Okotoks in 1931. He, with his parents and five siblings, moved to Sylvan Lake in 1940. The Barker family were active community members, and Gordon enjoyed the simple small-town life that Sylvan Lake provided. Gordon detested school, but he loved learning. Engines and mechanical trades were a source of fascination. He loved working in his garage, surrounded by tools, grease, oil and engine parts. He became known around town as an adept problem solver when dealing with mechanical issues. People leaned on him for answers, because he was trustworthy, knowledgeable, capable, and his maintenance or repair work was solid. He often found or created solutions to complex mechanical problems, and this brought comfort to many friends and family members. Gord also loved the sound of an engine firing up, after the repairs had been made.

Gordon married the love of his life Ann in 1953, and this union of 59 years welcomed 4 children. They settled in Sylvan in 1963. Ann, the consummate homemaker, held down the fort when Gordon would leave for seasonal work. He was often away, but his presence was always felt in the home.

Dad enjoyed being outside and active physically. His career included heavy equipment operation for road construction. Later, when he went into business for himself, he drove truck, hauling water to seismic crews in winters and gravel to local customers during summers. The work was physically intensive, the hours were long, the conditions could be harsh at times, but he loved it. He loved the open road, and the friendships made along the way.

Dad’s hobbies were varied, but he was most passionate about fishing. He fished a multitude of small lakes, enjoyed the Coho salmon runs on the raging Skeena River, and relished the beauty of the Pacific Ocean. Other outdoor pursuits he enjoyed included camping, snowmobiling, and quadding in the West Country. He adored socializing over early morning coffee or an evening rum and coke, and his love affair with ice cream became legendary.

Gord, a consummate gentleman, was known widely for his compassion and generosity. He was not comfortable with formal recognition or accolades. His moral compass was so clearly defined, he approached each day as an opportunity to be of service to others. He was also a man of honour. Dad’s handshake was his word. It was warm, strong, dependable and binding.

Gord was predeceased by his wife Ann, his parents Cecil and Clara, his brothers Frank and Thomas, and his sister Joyce. He is survived by his children, Bev (Brian), Larry (Colette), Don (Steven), Janice (Kirk), five cherished grandchildren and one precious great-granddaughter.

The family feels this absolute gem of a man deserves a proper celebration of life. We will happily host this event in the spring. It seems fitting to celebrate him then, as springtime represented his return to the community after working up north all winter. It was a time of joy for our family. It was Dad’s favourite time as well, as he could finally relax and enjoy quality time with his family and friends.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Alzheimer’s Society of Canada. Please think of Gordon fondly the next time you eat a Dairy Queen Dilly Bar … or any form of ice cream, as he loved it all.

Condolences

Gordon & Elaine Poulton:

Our condolences to the family
He was a great friend to all.
Rest in Peace Gordon

Donald and Sylvia Jean Burdick:

Many good memories run through our minds too as we read this warm remembrance!! Sincere sympathies to you all!!

Brenda & Wayne Crosbie:

Our condolences to your family and friends. May Gordon’s soul rest in eternal peace.

Vivian Coderre :

I remember Gordon‘s smile was the best. He was good friends with my husband Gus coderre and they always enjoyed telling a few stories going for coffee and I know there’s a lot of stories told during their coffee hour.
I always enjoyed stopping at the house to visit with your mom and dad and it was great company.
I often drive by the acreage and I was always wondering how Gordon was doing. He was always in my thoughts.
Sending condolences with prayers to you and your family.

Lillian Tetreau:

A very special guy who leaves a void in his family and community. My condolences.

Pam (Hambling) Marchesi:

Sending love, sympathy and prayer to you all Bev, Larry, Don and Janice and to all of your families and loved ones. 'Uncle' Gordon was truly one of a kind, was much loved and will be missed.
Pam, Mike, Melissa (Tylor) and Bradyn (Meg)

Barbara Vig:

My condolences to you all. Dave and I always enjoyed visiting your mom and Dad and they both made me feel welcomed in the family from the start. Hugs.

John clayton:

Enjoyed having coffee with Gordon and Tom and a bunch of other guys. I especially remember Gordon coming in one morning and since he had missed the previous day we wanted to know why He very calmly explained that he had been to an eye surgeon and had his Cadillac removed. He was a-great guy and will be missed
PS
In the morning at the restaurant he would be seen ordering a large bowl of oatmeal with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top …

Marion and Len Thompson:

What’ a lovely and fitting obituary for a life well lived. As life-long friends of the Barker family, we feel your loss and mourn his passing but can’t help feel that the Barkers and the Munsons have reunited - that banjo and trumpet are making some heavenly music and the rum and cokes are being poured. Big hugs and much love to Bev, Larry, Donny and Janice.

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