John William Barrett

John was born in Trail, BC, the second of seven children to Flo and James who immigrated from England. He worked hard his entire life and passed his work ethic on to his children and grandchildren. With very little formal education, John could fix anything—especially if it had a motor. If he didn’t know how to do something, he figured it out.

John was happiest in the ‘bush’. His hunting partners describe him has the best bushman with an uncanny sense for the right choices in outdoor situations. John was still actively hunting and fishing.

Throughout his life John worked many jobs including forestry, long haul truck driver, underground miner, logging, smelter refining. In 1972, John moved to Merritt with his family and worked at Highland Valley Copper Mine as a heavy equipment operator until his retirement. Once retired John & Hilda loaded up their RV and travelled around North America enjoying the life of Canadian Snowbirds. After the travelling, John couldn’t be idle so he learned to be helpful in the house, grew a productive vegetable garden, volunteered for the Health Care Auxiliary, and helped anyone with anything when asked. He could be seen walking, cycling, and out with his metal detector – keeping busy.

Memories of John will be treasured by Hilda, his wife of 64 years, daughters Lorelie (Chris) Kristofferson, Joan Wheeler (Stew McLean), grandsons, Kenn, Carl, John brother Dave (Rita) Barrett, sister-in-law Eva Barrett of Fruitvale BC, along with numerous other family members and long-time friends.

At his request, a simple gathering will be held to celebrate his life. Those who wish to celebrate John with his family are invited to join us at 2343 Reid Place at 1:00 pm on Saturday, July 25th.