John William Barber

John was the loving husband of the late Patricia Barber, brother to Kathleen Winterfield and predeceased by his brother, Leo. He was a devoted father to John F. Barber (Barb), Renee Gucwa (Paul), Mary Hoover (Todd), Trish Blackwell (Ken), and Erik Barber (Mishelle), He was a proud grandfather of Patrick (Kristin), Allie (Josh), Chase (Sarah), Taylor (Alex), Addison, Justin (Nicole), Lauren (Jose), Jake, Chance, Quinn (Veronica), and Jack. John was also a cherished great grandpa to Eli, Katelin, Joshua, Vivian, Harrison, Ella, Juliette, Ava and Kennedy.

John William Barber was a respected Michigan civil engineer whose career spanned decades. He earned the trust of colleagues, clients, and contractors alike. He practiced in the municipal and infrastructure consulting environment, working with prominent Michigan firms including Spalding DeDecker & Associates, Wade Trim and Ric-Man Construction.

In 1991, he received the Franklin D. Meyers, P.E. Outstanding Civil Engineer of the Year Award from the Southeastern Michigan Branch of the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE). This honor is reserved for engineers whose work advances the profession through technical excellence, ethical practice, and active professional engagement.

John’s career exemplified the highest ideals of civil engineering: technical competence, ethical responsibility, professional service, and practical wisdom. His legacy endures in the projects he helped deliver, the standards he upheld, and the many professionals whom he mentored.

John enjoyed his retirement years traveling throughout the U.S. in their RV, with his wife, Patricia. He cherished his family and friends and left a lasting impression on those who knew him. He will be deeply missed.

A Celebration of Life Ceremony will be held at Pixley Funeral Home on Saturday, May 16th with visitation from 11-1 with a funeral service being held at 1pm.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made in John’s honor to HOSPICE of Michigan. Donations may be made online at https://www.hom.org/donate/ or mailed to the following address: Hospice of Michigan 989 Spaulding SE Ada, MI 49301