FORT EDWARD – Donald “Don” E. Barber, 86, passed away on Saturday, May 6, 2017, at his home in Fort Edward.
Born on July 18, 1930, in Fort Edward, he was the son of the late Charles and Alice (O’Connell) Barber.
Don was a graduate of Fort Edward High School and served in the US Navy. Upon discharge he was employed by Scott Paper Company and retired in 1986 as a Supervisor, after
40 years of service. Don was also the long-time proprietor of Bruso’s Tavern in Hudson Falls, where he shared his love of sports, jokes with friends and gestures of kindness with those in
need. Wrestling was always very special to Don. Through the years, he enjoyed watching his sons, grandsons and all the local athletes compete at wrestling events.
Don was united in marriage to Donna M. Bruso on April 20,1952 in St. Joseph’s Church, Fort Edward.
He was predeceased by his son, Daniel T. Barber and his parents. Don was the last of his siblings, Thomas Barber, Edward Barber, Jean Barber Archambault, Charlotte Barber Archambault and
his twin Dorothy Barber Strainer.
In addition to his wife of 65 years, Don is survived by daughters, Kathy Cantiello (Thomas) of Queensbury, Beth Barber-Boulet (Thomas) of Colorado Springs, CO, Lynne Huntsman (Greg) of Springfield, MO; sons, Patrick Barber (Linda) of Englewood, FL, Robert Barber of Hudson Falls, Reed Barber (Elizabeth) of Heathrow, FL.; and his daughter in law, Jeanne Brock Barber. Don is also survived by 15 grandchildren; grandsons, Louis Cantiello, Ryan Barber, Joel Cantiello, Corey Barber, Thomas Barber, Aaron Barber, William Lacinak, Gavin Huntsman and Aidan Lacinak; and granddaughters, Tara Lacinak, Gabriella Barber, Gillian Huntsman, Delaney Barber and Lindsey Barber; and his great grandchildren, “Lil T”, Delia, Sam, Wyatt, Everette, Ben and Catherine. Also survived is Don’s puppy, Chester.
Friends may call on Friday from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Carleton Funeral Home, Inc., 68 Main Street in Hudson Falls.
All are welcome to Don’s graveside service which will be conducted at 11 a.m. on Saturday, at St. Joseph’s Cemetery in Fort Edward, followed by a reception at Bruso’s Tavern, 43 Main Street in Hudson Falls.
A special thank you to Maureen O’Brien and the nurses for providing wonderful care to Don during his illness.
Memorial donations may be sent to Hudson Falls Wrestling Club, C/O Cathy Dudley, Hudson Falls High School, 80 East Labarge Street, Hudson Falls 12839 or the charity of one’s choice.
He was a good man and will be greatly missed.