Drew Craig Barnes

Drew Craig Barnes

August 28, 1968 – January 4, 2023

It is with deep sadness that we say goodbye to a beloved father, son, brother, nephew, uncle, and friend, Drew Barnes.

Drew was born in Don Mills, the son of David Barnes and Judy Beauvais (nee Craig) at the tail end of the 1960’s. Some of the freedom loving spirit of that era found its way into Drew, who lived a life characterized by his independent nature, his love of nature, and by his generosity.

His first extended exposure to the natural world came at the age of 12, when his father, hoping to tame some of his son’s wild streak, sent him to work at a lodge owned by a friend, in the Yukon. Drew fell in love with the outdoors. He would go on to become a Junior Ranger, a hunter, and an expert canoe guide, testing his whitewater skills in rivers east and west.

After graduating high school, he went on to study at Fleming College to become an arborist. He began his career as a tree surgeon, at one time working for Toronto Hydro.

As a young man, he loved to travel, spending time in Europe and Mexico, collecting many stories along the way.

Drew also had a keen love of music and musicians. At one time he owned a bar in Kensington Market called “Planet Kensington” where he collaborated with friends creating and sharing good company, music, and food.

Drew left Toronto for a patch of land near Apsley, where he met Kristy Post and the extended Post family. They began their own family, and as a new father, Drew was devoted to his two daughters, Jasmine and Maia. He loved life in his new community, raising animals, coaching hockey, and enjoying country life.

Drew had to give up his tree surgeon work due to an accident in which his foot was severely damaged. The injury caused him chronic pain, which contributed to other health challenges and struggles. Though his physical difficulties dampened his abilities, his love of telling a good story, or sharing a laugh, or enjoying a good meal, remained.

Drew leaves behind his beloved daughters, Jasmine and Maia, their mother Kristy, his mother Judy, and sister Kim, his nieces and nephews, and many other family and friends.

A Celebration of Life will be held on January 18, 2023, at Warkworth Town Hall Centre for the Arts (40 Main Street). Please click HERE for details of the service.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the following GoFundMe campaign in support of Drew’s daughters. Please click HERE to contribute.

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