Barnett
Douglas E. Barnett of Edmonton, formerly of the Stettler, Ab. (Liberal District), passed away in Edmonton on Sat., Jan. 9, 2016 at the age of 82.
Doug was born on Feb. 25, 1933 in the family home north of Spruce Grove, Ab. He married Rita (nee Crowe) of the Stettler area in Christ King Catholic Church on Aug. 15, 1959 and thereafter resided in Camrose.
Doug’s love of education led to two Provincial Land Surveying Commissions (Alberta and Saskatchewan), as well as the Federal Commission as Canada Land Surveyor.
From Camrose, his young family moved to Edmonton in 1966 and Doug became the founding chair for the newly formed Survey Technology Program at N.A.I.T. In order to benefit both the survey program and his students, Doug went on to graduate from the University of Alberta with a Bachelor of Education degree in 1973.
All the while he worked hard to successfully establish the Survey Technology Program as a Canada-wide accredited program. His dedication and care for his students prompted approximately 50 young men and women to pursue and obtain their professional designation as Alberta Land Surveyors. His eldest son Bruce was one of these who obtained two land surveying commissions.
Doug retired from N.A.I.T. in 1995. In 2002 Doug received the prestigious Honorary Life Membership Award from the Alberta Land Surveyors’ Association and in 2010 was recognized again by his peers as they celebrated his 50 years of serving the public as an Alberta Land Surveyor.
Doug is survived by his three loving sons, Bruce (Patricia), Donald and Ken (Diyette). He was predeceased by his wife Rita in 2006.
Doug’s early retirement years were spent loving and caring for Rita at home in Edmonton while dementia took its course with her over a period of 10 years. This self-sacrifice for the love of his wife was beautiful proof of Doug’s great soul. His example was one the family members will never forget. Doug dedicated his life fully to his family, his students and his profession. He will be remembered for his faith lived out in gentleness, kindness, generosity and leadership.
Both the Prayer Vigil and Mass of Christian Burial will be at Christ King Catholic Church in Stettler, Ab. (4916 – 54 Street). The Prayer Vigil will take place at 7 p.m. Fri., Jan. 29, 2016. The Funeral Mass will be at 11 a.m. Sat., Jan. 30, 2016.
As an expression of sympathy, in lieu of flowers, a memorial contribution may be made to the Liberal Cemetery in care of Brennen Funeral Home Ltd. Box 193, Stettler, Alberta, T0C 2L0, 403-742-3315. Condolences may be sent or viewed at www.brennenfuneralhome.com.
