Harold Barbera's Obituary
Harold “Hal” R Barbera, 80, resident of Tamarac, Florida, and formerly of Hagerstown, Maryland, and New Jersey, was a caring and devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend. He passed away on July 11, 2022, in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Hal showed great courage and resilience while battling a recent medical condition. His strong will to push through life-changing obstacles was a reminder to seize the moment and enjoy each and every day.
Born December 8, 1941, to Henry and Charlotte Barbera, Hal grew up in New Jersey with his brothers Bobby and Henry Barbera.
Hal graduated from Clayton High School in Clayton, NJ. He went on to complete his Bachelor of Science degree at Penn State University. He was a meteorologist, computer programmer, and project manager. Captain Harold R Barbera also proudly served our great country in the US Air Force.
In Hal’s words, “It’s not what you’ve earned; It’s not where you’ve been; It’s not what you’ve accomplished when you finally depart. What will truly remain; what will live on in other people’s hearts, will be the love, joy, and concern you freely gave from your heart.” Hal lived this message daily through his dedication to his family.
There are many words to describe Hal. First and foremost, he was a committed husband, father, and grandfather. Hal was intelligent and sought to learn and grow in knowledge, even until the very end of his life. Not only did he enrich himself intellectually, but he also focused on his physical health, exercising daily and being conscious of his diet. Hal was witty, lighthearted, and creative, making him enjoyable to be around. You could really have an interesting conversation with him for hours and hours. He eloquently wrote about deep and funny topics, appreciated art, and thoroughly enjoyed music, painting, drawing, and anything creative.
Hal wrote, “Life is a poem to be lived, but maybe now just a rhyme, a melody in your head. But better yet, if lived nurtured, constantly fed in your life journey in every place, everywhere, even in your stead! Then your life will become a beautiful poem You Have Lived!”
Beloved husband of 50 years, Hal is survived by his wife, Judith Lee (Knapp) Barbera. He was a loving and supportive father to his two daughters, Julie Barbera and husband German Barrera of Boca Raton, Florida, and Amy Barbera and fiance Torrance (TC) Copeland of Tamarac Florida. He was the cherished grandfather of Sebastian and Deangelo Barrera. Hal also had a close bond with his daughter Amy’s dog, Oreo.
A memorial service to celebrate Hal’s life will be held at Alexander-Levitt Funerals and Cremations in Tamarac, Florida. An exact date and time have not been set yet but will be announced in the coming days.
Private interment will take place at South Florida National Cemetary in Lake Worth, Florida.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in memory of Harold R Barbera. You can mail donations to 501 St. Jude Place Memphis, TN 38105 USA, or call 1800-213-6584. You can also donate by clicking this link: Donate to St Jude
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