Vernon Harold Barber I

Vernon Harold Barber I

Vernon H. “Bunk” Barber I, 77, of Andrews Settlement, Pa., died Thursday, (Sept. 6, 2018) in Buffalo, N.Y., having been a patient in the Buffalo Veterans Administration Hospital for two weeks.

Vernon was born March 13, 1941, in Coudersport, Pa., the son of the late Selin C. and M. Lowanna (Slingerland) Barber. He attended Northern Potter High School in Ulysses, Pa., and Elohim Bible Institute in Castile, N.Y. Vernon was honorably discharged from the United States Navy, and served on the U.S.S. Currituck AV-7, “The Wild Goose”, from March 10, 1959, to March 12, 1962, during the Vietnam War

Vernon was an excellent mechanic, capable of fixing almost any engine; he was an avid fisherman, hunter, and gun aficionado. He was a Philadelphia Eagles fan, was an exceptional pool player, loved playing cards, was a joker and prankster, and he loved to read, especially his bible. His ability to recall and recite scripture was extraordinary. He was a member of the Potter County Anglers Club, and The USS Currituck AV-7 Association. Vernon loved large family gatherings and reunions, his children were his pride, and his grandchildren were his joy.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his son and namesake, Vernon Harold Barber II, on Sept. 9, 1990; his brother, William C. Barber; his niece, Mary Ellen Barber Craft, and his brother-in-law, Alwin D. Ingalls.

Surviving are his son, Calvin Barber of Andrews Settlement, Pa.; his daughter and son-in-law, Suzette and Peter Pondillo, of Horseheads, N.Y. and son and daughter-in-law, Gabe and Samantha Barber, of Ulysses, Pa. Also surviving him are his sister, Patricia Ingalls of Shinglehouse, Pa.; his sister-in-law, Theresa Barber of Andrews Settlement, Pa.; an aunt, Helen Howland of Port Allegany, Pa.; his beloved companion, Lillian Free, of Genesee, Pa.; his grandchildren, Zane, Zeke, Bella-Sophia, Haydon, and Kaydence, as well as many special nephews, nieces, cousins, friends, and his dog Buster.

The Avoca Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Vernon Harold Barber I.

Calling hours are 11a.m.-1 p.m. Friday (Sept. 14, 2018) at the Avoca Funeral Home, 22 North Main St., Avoca, N.Y. Immediately following will be a procession to the Bath National VA Cemetery for committal service and military rites.

Memorials can be made in Vernon’s name to Potter County Anglers Club, 4472 S.R. 82, Coudersport, Pa., 16915.

Online condolences or remembrances of Vernon are welcomed at www.bishopandjohnsonfuneralhome.com