Michael J. Barber

Michael J. Barber, 69, passed away peacefully on Thursday, August 22, 2024. Born in Albany NY, he was the son of the late James and Eunice Barber. 

He retired as a Computer Technician after a 40 year career with the NY State Department of Labor. Mike was the current member and past Grand Knight of the Knights of Columbus Council 7606, at Saint John the Baptist Church, Valatie NY. Mike was a Charter Member, Past President, and the current Chaplain of the Red Knights Motorcycle Club New York Chapter III. He was one of the forces behind forming one of the largest chapters in the Red Knights International Firefighters Motorcycle Club - New York Chapter III. He was a life member and past Chief of the McKownville Fire Department. He was also a former member of the Western Turnpike Ambulance Squad. 

In his spare time, Mike enjoyed attending NY Yankee games, he was lifelong Giants football fan, and he was a great outdoors sportsman (hunting, fishing, and camping). He was an excellent dancer and would often sing along as he danced. He was also an animal lover. 

Michael is survived by his significant other, “BFF”, Debra Mainville of Kinderhook; his siblings Kathy (Al) McLean, Patricia Barber, Judy (Stuart) Powers, John Barber, and Karen (Jeff) Phillips; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins. He will be especially missed by his puppy “girls”, otherwise known as Sophie and Sally, and Bean the kitty. 

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his Uncle Tom Barber. 

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Mike’s honor to the Columbia Greene Humane Society.

Visitation will take place on Friday, August 30, 2024, from 4:00 pm - 7:00 pm at New Comer Cremations & Funerals, 343 New Karner Rd., Colonie NY 12205. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30am on Saturday, August 31, 2024, in All Saints Catholic Church, 16 Homestead St, Albany, NY 12203. Interment will follow at Calvary Cemetery, 481 Rte 9W, Glenmont, NY 12077.