Brian BARKLA Obituary

While I only met my Uncle maybe a baker's dozen times in 64 years he always impressed me with his analytical mind and thirst for more. More knowledge, more good food, or just more good stimulating conversation.
My earliest clear memories of him are on his Diary farm at Whakamara whistling his dog called Fly to round up the herd for the evening milking. The sounds of classical music playing in the milking shed to calm the girls as they gave up their days creation. Him handing me a stainless-steel pitcher of fresh milk to take back to the house and letting me try the warm creamy delight first and smiling down at me as the yellowish nectar would run down my chin as I drank too fast. The spirited political conversations with my father who saw the world through a different albeit friendly lens. His dulcet voice and cocking of his head as he conveyed a fact or memory of which he had a remarkable command and storehouse of. His ability to convey later in my early twenties the complexity and mechanical working of an automobile differential and his curiously about my life living in the United States. And then there was his willingness to step forward a give a heartfelt and moving eulogy at my Mother's funeral.
The last time I had his personal association was a few years back as he directed me on a tour of places my father had lived, worked and played in Taranaki. His mind once again lucid and complete with details long since passed into the subtle breeze of time.
While the Angels have already sung the intimate glories of the Lords faithful servant returning home it is with deep remorse I will not create new memories of my Uncle. I'm comforted however by those distinct moments I spent with one of God's special children.
I remain devoted to the memory and life of a Father a Husband a Friend and most of all proud to say, my Uncle Brian.
Paul Tombleson
North Carolina
USA

Aunty Rosemary and family. I am so sorry for your loss of Uncle Brian. My love, strength and prayers are with you all at this time. God Bless Simone, Don, Harrison and Tegan xxxx

Aunty Rosemary and family, thinking of you all at this time,and the fond memories we shared with Uncle Brian on the farm at Whakamara. So glad that I spent some time with him and the family in Feb this year. RIP Uncle

In sending my condolences to Brian's family: I also want to pay tribute to Brian. I first met him when I was Archdeacon of Taranaki and Spiritual Director of Cursillo in the diocese. Brian was a man of gentle wisdom: who I often referred to as the Bishop of Hawera! I always enjoyed and appreciated the times we shared. Brian is and was a real blessing to all! Be assured of my love and prayers as you both celebrate and give thanks for a good man and a life well lived.

Rosemary and family so sorry to hear of Brian passing,we have some very fond memories of visits when living at Whakamara.In time you too will remember the good times together.love to all Diane and Frank Haydon

Aunty Rosemary and family
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together, as you celebrate a life well lived.
With love the Tombleson/Partridge families xx

Sorry to hear of Mr Barkla's passing, a true gentleman. I have fond memories of our families at Mokoia school activities.
Jenny Johnston (Chisnall)

Thinking of you Rosemary and family. Brian was a real gentleman and it was a pleasure knowing him. Wish it could have been for longer.

Our thoughts are with you in this sad time. Rest peacefully Brian.

Rosemary and family
Our deepest sympathy to you all in the passing of a great man.
Our thoughts are with you all.
Regards the Mellow familys.

Rosemary and family,
our thoughts are with you all at this very sad time. Our love and wishes
The Mellow family.