Obituary of Barry BICKNER

Barry Leverne Bickner, a farmer of the Vanguard district, passed away at the farm home on Friday, January 3, 2014, at the age of 68 years. Barry was born in Swift Current, SK on June 6, 1945 to Benjamin and Geraldine Bickner. Barry married June Scheller on October 20, 1965, in Vanguard. Barry loved farming with his wife and boys and was so proud that he had a permit book at the age of 15. The only thing he wanted to do was farm and knew early in life that was his life’s calling. He loved the land and was like a kid in a sand box playing with his equipment. His love of the farm extended to his grandchildren as they began helping him. His other love in life was travelling to Arizona and trips in their motorhome. Keeping in touch and visiting with friends and family was very important to him. Lending a helping hand to anyone who needed it was common. He had a huge love of his ‘grand’ dogs. He will be greatly missed by all that knew him. Barry is survived by his loving wife of 48 years June Bickner; son John (Tracy Fizell), Natasha, Brenden, Ashley; son Todd (Kandi Finlay), Cassidy, Bradley; son Tim (Crystal Fehr) Bickner, Danae, Hunter; brother Bruce (Garnet) Bickner; sister Bev Wenzel-Sharpe; special mothers Louise Bickner, Helen Scheller; numerous nieces, nephews and extended families. Predeceased by grandson Shawn Bickner 1996; father Ben Bickner 1994; mother Geraldine Bickner (Simmons) 1980; father-in-law John Scheller 1992; brother-in-law Peter Sharpe. Memorial Service was held on Saturday, January 11, 2014, at 11:00 a.m., at the Vanguard Community School. Master of ceremonies was Greg Shwaga. The eulogy was shared by Dale Gross. Honorary pallbearers were "All that shared in Barry’s life.” Memorial donations in memory of Barry to the Vanguard Recreation Board, Box 53, Vanguard, SK S0N 2V0, were greatly appreciated. Online condolences can be shared at www.pichehawkinsgrondinfuneralchapels.ca. Funeral arrangements entrusted to Piche-Hawkins-Grondin Funeral Chapels, Assiniboia & Gravelbourg.