John Barker "Bark" Willard, Jr.

John Barker “Bark” Willard Jr. passed away 12/11/2024 in his home. He was born April 9, 1935 to John B Willard and Earlene Rafus Willard in Wilmington VT.. As a child Barker found his passion for fishing and hunting, a passion he would pursue all of his life. He was never happier than being at his camp in Worcester watching the show through his picture windows or to be outside tramping around in the woods enjoying the wildlife and beauty around him. Bark also was an avid baseball player and fan of the sport, and was extremely pleased with the Yankee’s performance in the 2024 World Series. After graduating from Wilmington High School, Barker joined the US Air Force. During his time in the Air Force he was stationed in Alaska as a radar operator. He truly loved being in Alaska. After leaving the Air Force he returned to Vermont where he followed another calling. He became a firefighter and was stationed in Montpelier for a time. He eventually left Montpelier and returned to Wilmington, where he began working for his father as a carpenter, a profession he flourished in and would follow his entire working career. Bark also joined the Wilmington Volunteer Fire Department in 1959 and in 1969 became the Chief and served in that role until his retirement in 1982. During his time as Chief he helped to establish the mutual aid system between the towns, introduced the junior firefighter program to the WFD, and also was a state fire fighting instructor. It was in Wilmington, while working as a bartender, that he would meet Nancy Darden who was there working as a waitress and skiing. The two fell in love and wed in September of 1961. John and Nancy would build a home on Lisle Hill in 1964 where they would live and raise 2 children. John was predeceased by an infant daughter, his parents John and Earlene and his wife Nancy. He is survived by his daughter Allison and wife Christine, son Barker and partner Jessica and his two beloved grandchildren Austin and Aspen, who called him Papa, they were the spark that kept him going. He is also survived by his brother Bruce Willard and wife Marcia, and their children and grandchildren, sister Joanne Boyd and husband Robbie, their children and grandchildren and brother-in-law Austin Darden and wife Mary Hart, their children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. Barker will be remembered by many dear friends all over the state and country. He was a kind hearted and loyal friend to many, who will miss him dearly. So in Dad’s memory we invite any and all to have a gin and tonic, no lime. As per his request there will be no services. Donations may be made to the Jimmy Fund at 10 Brooklyn PL, Boston, MA 02445 or the Vermont Make-A-Wish Foundation at 6655 Shelburne Rd Ste. 300, Shelburne, VT 05482.