Irving (Ike) Kearl Barber

Irving (Ike) Kearl  Barber
February 14, 1923 – April 13, 2012

The Foundation was profoundly saddened by the passing of philanthropist, Dr Irving (Ike) K.  Barber on April 13, 2012 at the age of 89.   As a founding member of the Irving K Barber British Columbia Scholarship Society – one of the Foundation’s fund holders – he played an instrumental role in both creating the society that bears his name and in managing the growth of its scholarship and award programs.

Dr. Barber was a well-known philanthropist who supported many divergent causes in British Columbia.  He was particularly passionate about education and worked tirelessly to inspire young people to apply themselves to academic pursuits.  He was influential in establishing programs that assist students living in remote communities to attend colleges and universities in larger urban centres, and was well known for his efforts to encourage Aboriginal youth to pursue higher levels of education and training.

Ike Barber’s generosity over many years helped to make British Columbia a better place to live and learn.  His legacy is profound and he will long be remembered.