JOHN ALBERT BENJAMIN BARKER

Suddenly, but peacefully, on Saturday, September 5, 2026 John Albert Benjamin Barker passed away at the Grace Hospital at the age of 75 years old, surrounded by the love and presence of family. Sadly, he had been diagnosed with Alzheimer's 5 years ago and most recently cancer.

Ben is predeceased by his mother Dorothy, father John, and his sister Valerie and brother in law Richard. He is lovingly remembered by his sons, Steven (Jackie), Alan (Tanya) and Bryan (Christine) and their mother Catherine Lindsay; grand-daughters Grace, Katelyn, Violet, as well as Christine’s daughters (Helena, Lauren and Felicity). Ben will also be deeply missed by his sisters Dawn, Faith (Alan) and his nieces and nephew Patricia, Sean, Amy, Alanna and Janel and numerous grand nieces and grand nephews.

Born and raised in Winnipeg, Ben was a lifelong proud resident of Winnipeg. Growing up in the city's North End. He shared many stories of the life he had with family and friends he had growing up there. He married Cathy, with whom he shared 17 years and had three sons. He eventually settled in the Maples where he raised his family. After retirement he moved to the River Heights area, where he enjoyed the proximity to family and shopping. Due to Alzheimer's, he had moved to Thorvaldson's Care Center for his last few years.

Known as Ben to family and close friends and John at work. He had a few jobs in his life and all had their own interesting stories but none meant as much to him as his job with the RCMP. He proudly worked out of 'D' Division in food services for 30 years. He worked mainly in the kitchen but also up front in the cafeteria and also catering events. He had many good friends there over the years and loved socializing with everyone from the moment he walked in the door to the end of the day. It seemed like everyone knew John.

Ben was a jack of all trades. There didn't seem to be anything he couldn't make, fix, cook, etc… He never seemed intimidated by the task at hand. He didn't ever think of himself as a creative person but he had many hobbies including gardening indoors and outdoors, photography, woodworking, he loved technology and his music, especially The Beatles.

He could be shy at times but once you got to know him or once he got to know you he became very social. He loved to chat with friends and family. He cared deeply for all his family and friends and would offer to help whenever he could. He often surprised us all with thoughtful gifts he figured we could use. He had a big and generous heart.

In keeping with Ben's wishes, cremation has taken place and a small gathering of friends and family will be held to celebrate his life.

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ETHICAL DEATH CARE

Cremation & Life Celebrations

1833 Portage Avenue - Winnipeg

204-421-5501 - www.ethicaldeathcare.com

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