September 18, 1930 – January 24, 2025
BARKER, John Thomas Fitzgerald (Gerry) – It is with heavy hearts that his family shares that Gerry passed away at Roberta Place Long Term Care Home in Barrie, ON on January 24, 2025 in his 95th year.
As a young man, Gerry spent several years as a proud member of the Queen’s York Rangers, 1st American Regiment, where he attained the rank of lieutenant. He remained connected to his regimental brothers throughout his life.
Following in his family’s footsteps, Gerry was a lifelong journalist. He worked for The Toronto Star, first as a photographer/reporter, where he travelled extensively covering the news, including Hurricane Hazel, and travelling with entertainers such as The Beatles, Aretha Franklin and Diana Ross & the Supremes. In 1969, he purchased a weekly newspaper in Bradford, Ontario, and was an active member of both the OCNA (Ontario Community Newspaper Association) and the OWNA (Ontario Weekly Newspapers Association) where he served as President for a period of time. He finished his career back at The Toronto Star as Assistant Managing Editor.
Gerry believed in community service, and was a member of the Lions Club, serving as President in 1980-1981. He was passionate about Canadian military history, particularly World War II. He was very proud to have been invited to speak at his grandchildren’s elementary school on the subject. Inspired by a dear friend, he became obsessed with military aircraft and built an impressive collection of model war planes. His other passion was politics, actively campaigning for his chosen candidates. Conversations with Gerry about both Canadian and American politics were lively and informative. His love for and interest in people informed every aspect of his life. In fact, after only five short months at Roberta Place, he became a favourite resident, known for his stories and his sense of humour. Despite his health challenges, he continued to be curious and care about those around him.
Gerry is survived by his beloved wife, Barbara, his adoring children, Lori (Ken), Lesley (Acheson) and Jonathan, treasured grandchildren Rachel, Joshua, Deven, Aynsley and Magnus, and great-granddaughters Hunter and Dakota. He is also survived by his loving step-daughter, Lauryne, loved step-grandchildren Craig, Amanda (Peter), Taylor (Alex), Brianna, and Justin (Alana), and step-great-grandchildren Alex, Zoe, Aiden and Kerri. He is pre-deceased by his parents, Dorothy and Frank, his first wife, Nona, brother Peter, sister-in-law Pat and step-daughters Kerridy and Tyytler.
Cremation has taken place. A memorial visitation will be held on Saturday, March 1, 2025 from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. at the WALL-CUSTANCE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 206 Norfolk Street, Guelph.
Arrangements entrusted to the WALL-CUSTANCE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL 519-822-0051 / www.wallcustance.com.
In lieu of flowers, donations to The Toronto Star Fresh Air Fund, the Canadian Lung Association or a charity of your choosing would be appreciated.
A tree will be planted in memory of John (Gerry) T. F. Barker in the Wall-Custance Memorial Forest.