Barker, Vernon (Vern) Guy

May 30, 1946 – July 20, 2021

“Don’t worry, about a thing, ‘Cause every little thing gonna be alright”

Bob Marley

Vernon (Vern) Guy Barker passed away in Nelson Hospital surrounded by loving family and friends at 7:55 pm on July 20, 2021 at the age of 75 after a long and hard fought battle with cancer. Unlike the way he lived, Vern left us quietly. He was a well known and loved conversationalist at Gaia Rising, the metaphysical shop in Nelson which he shared with Laureen. He often had to be reminded to “let them leave, if they are edging toward the door” (said with love).

Vern was born in Calgary where his mother Verna (Gibson) Barker, who really wanted a girl, dressed him up in some frilly outfits before he was old enough to object. He was raised on the mean streets of Vancouver and had many friends and foster brothers who credit him with keeping them out of trouble.   He was a hard worker and often spent more time at work than was good for him. His laugh was infectious, and his hugs and handshakes were a blessing.

Vern is survived by his spouse: Laureen; his children: Vern (Trayci), Scott, Guy (Shelley) and Lee; his step-children: Lena (Duncan) and Carly (Travis); his grandchildren: Vern Jr, Mariah, Alisha, Taneesha, Cadence, Sydney, William, Journey, Zandra Firewolf, Little-Wolf, Raina, Taylor, Paige, Logan,  Jeremy, Blake, Corbin, Owen, Clay, and Elliot,  great-grand-children: Adam, Charlie, Rodney, Bradley, Laureen’s mother Yvonne and siblings: Janet, Jack (Paula), Marcia (John), Tara (Cam) and Kevin (Erin), multitudes of nieces and nephews and Foster brothers: … and many dear friends.

At Vern’s request no service will be held.  There will be a natural burial without embalming or coffin.  Originally, he wanted to be wheeled out into the forest and leaned up against a tree to feed the animals but he acquiesced when informed that was illegal and would result in his loving wife’s imprisonment.  The “green” burial will take place at 1:00 p.m. on August 1st, 2021 at the Dumont Creek Cemetery in Winlaw, BC.

All are welcome to attend. Please bring a memento, poem, song, and share hugs and memories. In lieu of flowers donations to the Dumont Creek Burial Society at email dumontcreekcemetery@gmail.com are gratefully accepted.

“Feel your feelings”

Vern Barker