Joseph Michael Barber, age 61, of St. Clair Shores, Michigan passed away on Wednesday, October 9, 2024. Joseph was born in Detroit, Michigan, to parents William and Faye Barber. After graduating from Lakeview High School in 1981, he continued on to travel school & marine mechanics school in Florida.
After his time in the travel industry, he worked for cemeteries for nearly two decades because he felt that work was the last act of service he could do for a person.
In 1981, he met Lydia through her mother Dorothy (who adored him) at the Shell gas station he worked at down her street. During the 43 years together, 31 married, Joe & Lydia went on to have 2 children, Shannon (Cody) Sivyer and Rachel Barber. He was a cherished Gramps to Ellie Sivyer.
Joe was predeceased by his sister Sandy, his mother & father, and his aunts & uncles.
We lost our father & husband, but this is a great loss for everyone he knew because he was so much more: a friend to everyone, a reliable colleague, a witty uncle, a dependable handyman, the list goes on.
We invite everyone to share pictures & memories. We cherished listening to his stories, & we'd love to continue to hear them through you.
Funeral Mass will be held on Saturday, October 19th beginning with a gathering at 9:30am, until time of mass at 10am, at St. Margaret of Scotland Catholic Church 21201 E. Thirteen Mile Road, St. Clair Shores, Michigan 48082. Following the funeral service, a memorial luncheon will be held at Marchiori Catering 21800 Marter Road, St. Clair Shores, Michigan 48080.
All donations in lieu of flowers will be added to Ellie's college fund as her Gramps would've wished.
Arrangements entrusted to Kaul Funeral Home St. Clair Shores Chapel.
