Birth date: Oct 26, 1920 Death date: Jul 1, 2015
Benjamin Barger, 94, of Gainesville, passed away Wednesday, July 1, 2015. He was born October 26, 1920 in Bolenge, Africa to Gervase James Patterson Barger and Myrtle Grace King Barger. Benjamin was a World War II veteran, as he h Read Obituary
Hi Lynn: I am so sorry to hear of Ben's passing. I will miss him more than words can express. You know how we teased each other. Ben and Marilyn started ushering at the very opening of the PAC and we enjoyed over 20 years of friendship. He will be greatly missed.
Virginia Wiley
I first met Dr. Barger in 1974 when I interviewed for a psychologist position at Student Mental Health Services, in an innovative program of providing interdisciplinary care to college students and professional training opportunities to psychiatric nurses, social workers, psychologists, mental health counselors, and psychiatrists; with Ben being one of the creators and the program's Director. He was then and continued to be until his retirement one of the most highly regarded health professionals in our community; he was universally seen as creative, collaborative, humanitarian and a fair and equal-opportunity leader--a man of vision and of conscience. He set an excellent example for all mental health professionals to follow, both in his work life and in his family life. When he retired from his profession, it was a great loss, but clearly the community's gain. For years and years, both Ben and Marilyn volunteered at Alachua General Hospital, spending their time assisting patients' family members and visitors, continuing even after starting their work at the Phillips. My heartfelt condolences to each and every member of Ben's family; your father (or grandparent) was a great man indeed. Shae Graham Kosch
Lynn, my sympathies are with you and your family.it was such a pleasure to know your father and to see him enjoying the performances at the Phillips Center. Martha LaTour
Lynn, we were saddened to hear of your dad's passing. His welcoming smile will surely be missed at the Phillips Center.
Peggy & Steve Collins
Lynn, I am sorry about your dad's passing. When I would show up to usher, it always made me happy to see that your dad was there. He was just a very gentle person. I am sorry for your loss, you were a great comrade to your dad.
peace be with you, Sheila Payne
Lynn and family, I feel honored to have worked with your father and mother at the UFPA. What a lovely couple, reunited again. Thank you for sharing them with us. RIP dear Ben.
Ben was a very witty and interesting man that loved to share stories about his life. He always got a laugh out of me when he volunteered at the Phillips Center. He will be missed. God bless his family and may many prayers be sent their way.
Dr. Barger was a wonderful and kind man. His love for his family, strong faith and kindness to others are the memories I'll cherish. May you rest in eternal peace, my friend.
Cheri Hodge
