Walter C Barber, Jr.

Walter C. Barber Jr., 82, of Oak Brook, IL, passed away peacefully on January 30, 2024 surrounded by close family. He was born on July 3, 1941, in Manhattan, New York, New York. "Lucky" was known for his intelligence, kind personality and zest for life. He had a quick wit, infinite patience and enjoyed sharing stories about his life's many adventures.

Walter is survived by his loving wife, Onny H. Barber (nee Winata), who proudly stood by his side throughout their journey together. Walt and Onny met in Bandung, Indonesia and married there in 1972. Onny was a young widow of four boys that Walter promptly adopted and raised as his own. In 1974, they had their youngest son together in Falls Church Virginia. Thus began a worldwide family adventure that brought them to many cities and countries throughout the years.

He was a devoted father to his five sons Iwan (Intan), Budhy, Bakty (Tamazeen), Hari (Rika), and Robert (Lara). Walter's grandchildren, Indy, Brant Danray, Roely, Kristian, Tessa, Davian, Vija, Raffi, Lilia, Jenna, and Adrian, brought immense joy and pride to his life. He was also blessed with great-grandchildren Bryson, Savannah, Luke, Liam, Wyatt, Kaleigh, Emmeline and Oliver.

Walter was an exceptional student and attended Briarcliff High School. He furthered his education at Syracuse University (B.S., Magna Cum Laude) and Catholic University (M.C.E.). He had a thirst for knowledge and was always eager to learn. He was a dedicated member of the Crew Team at Syracuse and later continued his passion through coaching.

Walter was employed by the EPA from 1974 to 1982, culminating as the acting EPA Administrator in 1981. He then furthered his career in many executive level Civil Engineering roles around the globe including posts at Jacobs Engineering, Waste Management, Groundwater Technologies, Fluor Daniel, and retired after returning to a role at Jacobs Engineering.

Walter will be remembered for his generosity, kindness, patience, dry sense of humor and love for his family. He leaves behind a legacy of cherished memories and will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

A private ceremony will be held to honor Walter's life.

Please join us in celebrating the life of Walter C. Barber Jr. by keeping his family in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.

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