A resident of Morrisburg for the past seven years, Richard Barkley passed away at the Ottawa Heart Institute on Monday, December 23, 2013. He was 68.
Richard was born in Toy Hill at his grandparent’s home on September 10, 1945. He was the son of Ronald and Eileen Barkley (nee Newbury).
Richard shared his childhood with his brothers, sisters and cousins growing up on Barkley road in Williamsburg Township. As a teenager he loved farm work, and he spent many hours helping neighbouring farmers, especially at harvest time.
Richard was a proud employee of Browns Foundry in Morrisburg, where he worked as a foreman and later as plant supervisor. When the business moved to Swanton Vermont, Richard and his family relocated and he continued to work for the Foundry until his retirement in 2003.
Hardworking and handy, Richard excelled at just about everything he set his mind to. He was a talented woodworker and an accomplished baker. Richard won first prize two years in a row at a local pie-baking contest.
Richard and Helen had many adventures together, which included travel and a variety of hobbies such as community work and visiting family and friends. Snowshoeing with friends was a new adventure they both enjoyed.
Richard loved his family, his surroundings and his friends. He had a big heart and will forever be in ours.
Richard was the beloved husband of Helen Laurin and the late Vallie Disheau.
He is survived by his children Adam (Jerrie Jo) of Richford, Vermont, Terri Laurin and her puppy Lola of Ottawa and Angie (Jim) Tidman of Kingston.
He was dear brother of Steven (Sue) of Morrisburg, Ruby (Carl) Van Allen of Williamsburg, Bobby (Anita) of Morrisburg, Sharon (Trevor) Easter of Iroquois and Brian (Janie) of Brazier Falls, New York.
Richard will be fondly remembered by grandchildren Alison, Lacie, Tabor, Emily, Katie and Matthew. He is also survived by many cousins, nieces and nephews.
Friends called at the Marsden and McLaughlin Funeral Home, Williamsburg, on Friday from 6-9 p.m. Funeral service was held at the funeral home on Saturday, December 28th, at 11 a.m. with Rev. Norine Gullons officiating. Interment followed at New Union Cemetery, Williamsburg.
Pallbearers were Bob Kennedy, Brian Barkley, Barry Barkley, Tom Henderson, John Hamiaux and Don Taylor.
Donations to the Ottawa Heart Institute would be gratefully acknowledged by the family.
“Sometimes the best thing you can say about a guy is that he was a good man. Richard Barkley was a good man. He was a kind and gentle man with a big smile and a farmer’s handshake. He could fix or build you just about anything and then bake you a pie. My family was very lucky to have him in our lives. He will be missed.”
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