Mr. John Barry Chandler entered peacefully into eternal rest at Bay Pines VA Medical Center on September 12th, 2019. John was 86. Born in Chester, Pennsylvania on February 25th, 1933 he was the son of Harold Chandler and Ruth Hacking. John met a young lady named Ruth Whitehead, whom he married at St. Cyril Church on April 8th, 1961. They enjoyed 59 years of marriage together. For most of his working years, John was a Journeyman Platemaker and retired from W. Vaco.
John’s survivors include his lovely wife Ruth; children John D. Chandler, Diane R. Chandler, Mary E. Chandler and Teddy. John was an avid outdoorsman who loved hunting, fishing, finding Indian artifacts, hand-carving walking sticks and spending time with his family. He was so proud of: being able to serve his company, being able to provide a loving, safe and comfortable life for his family, and being able to show & have unconditional love. John was truly a kind, selfless, loving, understanding, and gentle man who never met a stranger.
His family extends special thanks to the staff at VA Bay Pines and Hospice. Everyone they came in contact with surpassed any amount of expectations the Chandler family could have ever dreamed of. They all had total respect and care for his comfort.
Ceremonies to celebrate John’s military service will be held at Bay Pines National Cemetery on Monday September 23rd, 2019 at 2:30pm. Military Honors will be performed by the US Army Honors Team and VFW Post 9272, Chaplain George Francey officiating.
What a blessed life…. Knowing Diane as I do makes me hold her parents in high regard.
Daddy- I cant even remotely begin to tell you how proud of you I was. Such a complete gentleman, soft spoken, giving, gentle and of course so loving. He taught me so very much about nature and respecting nature, the amazing things he would show me. Like how to go along a freshly tilled field in PA and find beautiful remains of Indian artifact and then teach me about what they were used for and how they made them. Trout fishing along the streams. Dad taught me how to shoot a compound bow- we had hey bails set up for us to shoot at- that was a lot of fun. He also taught me how to throw a frisbee and in pa we had a few acres so we had lots of room to play- lots of great memories there. He also took me hunting ( I was too young to have a license) with him it was cold and we positioned ourselves next to a tree. I saw that big buck walking toward us I gave a slight pok and then dad saw it. I watched him shoot that deer and process it the correct way with respect and it was a super cool memory to have had been with him and witnessed that. Dad had this big company picnic and tons of people, he was my coach at the blueberry pie eating contests with all these older big guys and dad would say now get in there and eat it like a big crocodile and wouldn’t cha know I won every year!! I made dad proud :)
He treated my mother with such respect and love and even when he was sick still a gentle man with a smile. Dad was a good provider, certainly not afraid of work and taught us good work ethic along the way. He new a lot about the civil wars as well. When we lived back in Pa we always had a very large garden that we enjoyed working that all together. There was this one time when we went some place to ride horses and I had my hand over the railing and this horse grabbed my little hand and would not let go- Dad ran up and punched that horse straight in his mouth and boy he let go then! Dad was truly one of the good guys and I learned an awful lot from him. Dad & Mom stood by my side when I went thru some hard times and never judged (they may have not understood it but didn’t judge) Dad I know your not in pain and we all prayed & told you its ok and grand mom is going to be there waiting for you. You left us so peacefully- YOUR TRULY 1 OF A KIND DADDY AND I WILL MISS SEEING YOU AND TALKING WITH YOU BUT WILL NEVER EVER STOP LOVING YOU!!!! We will all take great care of Mom so don’t worry and we will all be together again when god calls on us. Until then………….. Diane
I’m in tears reading Diane’s cherished memories. Although I did not have the pleasure of meeting this incredible man I feel that I have been blessed, in the quiet moments, sneaking up on some of Diane’s secret fishing spots, to get a glimpse of him in her. Kind, gentle, always there to cheer her friends up, Diane has certainly embodied her fathers sweet spirit. I pray for peace, love and always fond memories to those he has touched and loved. My sincere condolences to all of you. I pray that the angels wrap their wings around you to bring comfort during this very difficult time.
My husband and I had three pleasure of meeting John at our home one day. He was a handsome, kind, and friendly man. My husband enjoyed talking with him about military times and events. Though this visit we realized where Diane for her friendliness and kindness. Through my friend Diane I’ve learned what an amazing father he was too her and her siblings. He was a gentle, loving giant to his sweet wife. I spoke with Diane numerous times while her dad was sick over this past year. As God was showing the family that it was soon time for him to come home to heaven, the family drew closer and closer in union, and allowed him to feel their love, allowing him to leave peacefully. He had to go first, so he could make sure everything was perfectly ready for them to join him one day in the future. Through this love you all shared, the wonderful memories, he will continue to live through you. My thoughts, prayers, and love are with you Diane, and your family.
Diane and family, I am so sorry for your profound loss and I will keep all of you in my heart and prayers. Diane, I never had the privilege of meeting your dad…but, I see so much warmth in his smile. I can see the apple did not fall far from the tree. May he Rest well and in PEACE. I love you..
Dearest Ruth and family,
My love to you Ruth, David, Diane and Mary. Ruth and John are my close neighbors. They moved from PA shortly after my move to St. Pete. Ruth cared for Barry with devoted passion and alway with love and a smile. Barry alway had a hello and a smile for me even throughout his extended illness. A precious soul who I know will be missed by friends and family. Prayers and love to you all.
Jo Hansen