Paul L. Barnard

Barnard, Paul L. COLONIE Paul L. Barnard, 94, died on August 12, 2014, peacefully at his long time residence in Colonie, in the care of his loving family and caretaker Janice. Paul was a career social worker for over 60 years. He served in various roles as counselor, supervisor, educator, administrator and mentor at Family and Children Services, Parsons, Charlton Home, Catholic Charities, VA Administration, Pinnacle Behavioral Health, and private practice. He taught social work at the University of Albany and Schenectady Community College. He officially ended his career at age 93, under protest. Paul had a long association with spiritual study groups. He was a member of the Albany Quaker Meeting and recently with the Unity Church of Albany. For many years he lead groups in "A Course in Miracles", the Four Agreements, book clubs and many more. He formed deep friendships in all of these associations. He was regarded as a humble and loving friend that many referred to as their spiritual guide and mentor. Paul loved music and played several instruments including the accordion that he played up to a week prior to his passing. All of his children participated in music lessons. Paul earned his bachelor's at the University of Illinois where he met his wife Dorothy. He received his master's at Boston University. Paul was predeceased by Dorothy; his daughter-in-law, Rita Barnard; and his grandson, Brock Tuczynski. He is survived by his children, Ethelyn (Paul) Grady of Colonie, David of Delmar, Jonathan (Gail) of Portland, Ore., Kathryn (William) Tuczynski of Greenfield Center, Timothy (Rebecca) of Colonie, Ronald (Mary Lou) of Albany, and Durwin (Judy) of Clearwater, Fla. Paul spent much time with his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He was an active father who involved himself in many projects, scouting, Indian Guides and outdoor activities. He and Dorothy left many cherished memories of annual family camping trips in spite of the size of the family. He was extremely proud of his 10 grandchildren, Darcy, Reanna, Michael, Edward, Harold, Arthur, Joshua, Jennifer, and Ryan. Paul was fond of using his imagination and telling them stories. He enjoyed a special closeness with his family in recent months as they provided one on one care for him at home. They enjoyed his wisdom, his humor and his gratitude. Paul will certainly be missed by all who knew him. His legacy of humble caring, searching for spiritual truth and his quest to be a healer to those in need. He was very blessed and has been a great blessing to many. Visiting hours will be at New Comer Cannon Funeral Home, 343 New Karner Road, Colonie, from 4 to 8 p.m. on Friday, August 15, 2014. A memorial service will be held at Unity Church, 21 King Ave., Albany, on Sunday at 2 p.m. Interment will be in the Saratoga National Cemetery on Monday, August 18. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Unity Church.