Obituary of Gordon R Barber

Gordon (Don) Roland Barber, was born May 16, 1928 to Harold & Iva Barber in Detroit, MI. He is the brother of Harold, Jean, Kay, Doug & Bob. Being tall & lanky, he started working in a brickyard at the early age of 12. He moved on to become an OD Grinder at Federal Mogul. He married Virginia "Butch" Spencer in 1949 and had daughters Janet, Doris & Nancy. Being a Jack of all trades, he built his first home in 1954 in Utica, MI and helped his brothers build their homes. He was often called MacGyver for the way he could figure out how to put it together or fix it. After many years of commuting from Utica to Detroit, he began working at Utica Community Schools, starting as custodian and working up to warehouse supervisor. After losing Virginia at a young age, he subsequently met Darlene, the love of his life, married her in 1969, and had a joyous union for 41 years. Don & Darlene retired in 1992 and headed to Seminole, FL for sunshine and fun. There, they enjoyed family and gained a multitude of new friends, which became extended family. While not an orator or one for speeches, he was always our family's patriarch. You knew where he stood on an issue. He was always giving sound advice, even if sometimes it was hard to hear. He got it right with no nonsense involved. Our John Wayne, a gentle giant with piercing blue eyes, tall, handsome, strong and kind….what a great man he was. He loved his girls, including "Puppy Sophie", and what a great dad he was. He cherished the "popcorn girl" and his darling Darlene. What a great husband he was. He loved his grandchildren, especially "the boy". His "signature" handshake was always a strength contest that Nathan never won. What a great grandpa he was. Little Logan would not yet know what a great great grandpa he would be. He loved life and so many people who touched his. What a great friend he was. He enjoyed woodworking, figurine painting, leather work, cards, games, puzzles and NASCAR. Don leaves behind his beloved Darlene, daughters Janet, Doris & Nancy, grandchildren Nathan, Jennifer, Virginia, Jacob & Alexander, great grandson Logan, precious puppy Sophie and many other loved ones not to mourn, but to cherish his memory and celebrate his life. Our world has just become much smaller and Heaven has become much brighter. What a beautiful Angel he is. Ditto - 11-17-2010