John F. Barber, 88, of Worcester, died at his home on Tuesday, September 5th, 2006, surrounded by his loving family. His wife of 47 years, Mary A. (Kawcab) Barber, died in 1993. Born on April 1, 1918, he was the son of Samuel and Maud (Oliver) Barber, of Worcester, and he lived in Worcester all his life. He leaves a daughter, Elaine M. (Barber) Galvin, her husband Jerome Galvin, and three grandchildren, John, Stephanie, and Michael Galvin. He also leaves a brother Norman Barber, and three sisters, Marjorie Rochefort, Shirley Lawton, and Jeanette Billups. He also leaves several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by a brother Clifford Barber, and three sisters, Aletha McNulty, Eva Nordigian, and Emma Barber.
He was a highly decorated World War II veteran, serving in the United States Army, 9th Division, 47th Infantry. He saw action on numerous fronts, including several European theaters, and the invasion at Normandy, rising to the rank of Staff Sgt., and received multiple awards and commendations, most notably the Bronze Star and the Purple Heart.
He retired from Jamesbury Corp. in 1984, and most enjoyed spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren. He was an avid gardener, and was always happy to share the overabundance of vegetables he grew with his family and friends. John's generous nature and kindness towards others will be fondly remembered, and he will be missed by all who knew him.
Calling hours will be held from 6-8pm Thursday evening at Nordgren Memorial Chapel, 300 Lincoln Street. Funeral services will be from the funeral home with a Mass at 10:00 a.m., on Friday at St. Joan of Arc Church, 570 Lincoln Street. Burial will follow in Notre Dame Cemetery. Memorial donations may be made to St. Joan of Arc Church, 570 Lincoln Street, Worcester MA 01605. For directions and on-line guestbook, please visit:
NordgrenMemorialChapel.com