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In memory of those who have Crossed the Bar
MACKENZIE, Jean A. (née BARKER) - born September 16, 1922 in Toronto, died July 4, 2008 in Vancouver. Only daughter of Lieutenant Colonel William Barker, VC, DSO, MC, and of Jean Kilbourn Barker née Smith. During WW II became an ambulance driver for the Red Cross in Toronto, then joined the WRCNS (Women's Royal Canadian Naval Service), where she plotted ship movements in the Atlantic and rose to the rank of Lieutenant. BA with a major in biology from Queen's University in Kingston. Worked as a lab technician at Royal Jubilee Hospital in Victoria, and later ran the clinical lab in Dawson Creek. After moving to Trail, did community work (UNICEF), and set up a dog training school. Trained a number of dogs to the highest levels of obedience competition. In the late 1950's moved to Duncan, and revived a childhood love of horses. After moving to Vancouver in the early 60's, joined the Southlands Riding and Polo Club, editing its magazine "The Horscope", and becoming its first woman president. Practiced dressage as a trainer, show rider, and judge. Won a bronze medal in the team dressage event at the Pan American Games in Winnipeg in 1967, on a horse she had trained herself. She had a deep love for animals, and in later years became a passionate vegan. Her home was often a sanctuary for orphaned or injured wildlife. One enduring image is of her pet pigeon perched on her head while she was riding around Southlands. In later years she strongly supported charities relating to nature conservation and animal rights. Survived by her husband, Cortlandt; her sons Alexander (Marlene), Ian (Andrew), and David; and David's children Henry, Mary, and Robert. A memorial will be held on Wednesday, July 30, at 7:00 p.m., at the Southlands Riding and Polo Club. In lieu of flowers please send donations to Critter Care Wildlife Society in Langley, B.C. (Vancouver Sun / The Province 12 Jul 2008)
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