John D. BARTON

November 5, 1931- April 5, 2014

On the morning of April 5th, John died peacefully with family beside him. He leaves Lesley and their three children; Juley, Reid (Donna), Alan (Kelly) — grandchildren, Matthew, Justin, Adam, Patrick, Chris, Stephanie, Samuel and Joe, and great grandchildren Haley and William.

John was born in Saskatoon to Donald and Evelyn Barton. From an early age his keen interest in radio led to his first job at CKRD in Red Deer, as he was finishing High School. For the next sixty years he did what he loved: working at the microphone doing morning shows on CHED, CKDA, CJCA, CHFI and then standing in front of the camera on such television shows as ‘What’s The Good Word’, ‘Hot Hands’ and ‘Pitfall’.

He also showed his immense talent at the drawing board teaching at various Art Schools around the province, on television and as creative director at advertising agencies.

John was an artist, a gifted man, a private man with a big melodious voice and an even bigger heart. We will love him always…as he loved us. Truly the “best of the best.”

At John’s request there will be a family burial service. A celebration of his life to be held in the summer.

The Barton family wish to thank the entire team at Jubilee Hospital Cancer Clinic and especially Dr. Nicol MacPherson, and Vancouver’s Dr. Denegri. You have been remarkable! Our thanks also to our family doctor Peter Innes. We are in your debt. Thank you so much.

In lieu of flowers, donations to Victoria Hospitals Foundation or to the B.C. Cancer Agency would be appreciated.

Published in The Times Colonist on Apr. 9, 2014