Obituary of Walter Lewis Barkhouse

Age 89, passed away October 6, 2017 at Saint Martha’s Regional Hospital, surrounded by loved ones, after a brief illness. Born June 18, 1928 in Lakeville, Kings Co., N.S., he was the son of the late Isaac and Hilda (MacDonald) Barkhouse. He grew up in Woodville, N.S. where he met and married the love of his life Jean Power in 1952 then moved to Antigonish where they raised their family of five children. Walter enjoyed a 42-year career with Co-op Atlantic as an accountant. He spent 11 years as an accountant with the Eastern Co-operative Services in Antigonish, transitioning to their Financial Services Department in 1965. In 1982 he was promoted to Supervisor, Accounting Services, the position he held until his retirement in 1992. Walter and Jean enjoyed socializing with their close-knit circle of friends, many of whom accompanied them on their extensive travels, visiting and exploring many parts of the world. For many years they wintered in Florida, and made Malignant Cove, Antigonish Co. their summer home. Walter took great pride in maintaining his property at ‘The Cove’ and produced incredible vegetable gardens and blueberry plants. He enjoyed travels in their motor home, played many a game of cards, participated in bowling, badminton, golf and horseshoes and was known to show his style on the dance floor. He was a loyal St. James United Church member, participating in many church functions and events over the years. A man of few words, Walter’s love and dedication for his family spoke volumes. A kind and gentle soul, he took great pride in his children and grandchildren’s accomplishments. A role model of integrity, kindness and strength, he recently enjoyed celebrating his 65th wedding anniversary this past summer. He is lovingly remembered and survived by his wife Jean; sons Brian (Doreen) and David (June), both of Antigonish; daughters Kimberley (Mark) Hansen, Halifax; and Lori, Antigonish; and his sister Jessie, Antigonish. He was a devoted grandfather adored by his 12 grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren who wish him an endless supply of toothpicks in heaven. He was pre-deceased by his son Robert and daughter-in-law Mary (Duggan). Visitation will be Tuesday, October 10th from 2-4 and 7-9 pm at MacIsaac Funeral Home, Antigonish. Funeral services, with reception to follow, will be held on Wednesday, October 11th at 1:00 pm at St. James United Church, Main Street, Antigonish, Reverend Peter Smith officiating; burial to follow in the church cemetery. Special thanks are extended to Dr. Martin Eckhart and the nursing staff at St. Martha's Regional Hospital for their compassionate care. Donations may be made to the St. James United Church Memorial Fund, the Saint Martha’s Regional Hospital Foundation, or a charity of your choice.