Paul R. Barber, 70, formerly of Landis Drive, passed away at Conestoga View after a lengthy illness on Monday, January 07, 2013. Born in Lancaster, he was the son of the late Paul M. and Leila G. (Nickel) Barber.

He was married to Martha "Marty" Joan (Kirchner) Barber, his loving partner and caregiver for 47 years.

A 1959 graduate of Lancaster Catholic High School, Paul earned a scholarship and graduated with a degree in philosophy from Saint Vincent's College in Latrobe, PA. He went onto receive a Master's degree from Millersville University in guidance and counseling.

Paul was dedicated to his faith, with a focus on serving others. He was a lifelong member of Sacred Heart of Jesus Catholic Church where he was an altar server, choir member and Eucharistic Minister. He ministered to residents of nursing care facilities and had a special relationship with many of the Alzheimer's patients. His ministry also included music and he founded the folk music group Journey. Later in life, he was a member of St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church where he was also involved in the folk music group.

He was a social studies and gifted education teacher at Garden Spot High School in New Holland, PA for 35 years. Additionally, he coached Chess, Rifle and Tennis and advised the Green Circle and Rapport Clubs. Paul had a passion for education and the development of young people, particularly in the area of leadership. His creativity in the instructional arena included Colonial Days and impersonations of many local historic figures including John Wise, Conrad Beissel and Thaddeus Stevens.

Paul had many and varied interests throughout his life. He was a master gardener who transformed a city yard into a green oasis and habitat for aquatic life. He enjoyed model-ship-building, ceramics and candle making and briefly dabbled in wine and beer making. He left a home full of hand-made and beautifully crafted furniture. From a young age, Paul had an interest in animals of all kinds. He created aquatic and marine aquariums and raised canaries, cockatiels, rabbits, guinea pigs, Irish Setters and a parrot named Spinner.

An avid collector, Paul was always in search of the elusive bottle in historic deposits throughout Lancaster County. He also collected coins, books, trains, tools and anything rusty, often cataloging these items as Treasures.

Paul was active in his neighborhood, especially in the northwest part of Lancaster City. He organized the annual Walnut and Pine Street neighborhood night out. He was always willing to spend time with members of his community as a handyman, advisor or listening ear.

In addition to his loving wife, he is survived by his three sons, Paul R. Barber, husband of Judith A. of Mount Joy, Peter R. Barber, husband of Kara L. of Lancaster, Aaron P. Barber, husband of Robyn B. of Pittsburgh, PA and one daughter, Maureen P. Troyer, wife of Tom E. of Johns Creek, GA. Also surviving is a sister, Margaret "Peggy" Cully of Brookhaven and 12 grandchildren: Declan, Brenna, Kieran and Cadel; Amanda and Isaac; Nicholas, Jonathan and Mary; Zachary, Leila and Madeline. He was preceded in death by a sister Patricia.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11AM on Friday, January 11, 2013 from St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church, 501 E. Orange St, Lancaster, PA 17602 with Rev. Daniel Mitzel as Celebrant. A viewing will be held from 7-9PM with a Christian Prayer Service at 8:45PM on Thursday, January 10, 2013 in the chapel at the Charles F. Snyder, Jr. Funeral Home & Crematory, 3110 Lititz Pike and a second viewing at the church on Friday from 10-11AM. Interment in St. Joseph New Catholic Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made in Paul's memory to the Alzheimer's Association, 3544 N. Progress Ave., Suite 205, Harrisburg, PA 17110-9638 or Lancaster Catholic High School, 630 Juliette Ave., Lancaster, PA 17601. To send the family online condolences, please visit SnyderFuneralHome.com. Charles F. Snyder, Jr. Funeral Home & Crematory 717-560-5100