Irving K. (Ike) Barber -- Biography

Irving K. Barber, 79, is widely recognized as a one of B.C.'s most prominent entrepreneurs and as a man who, over five decades, has worked hard to ensure that B.C.'s forests benefit British Columbians and that B.C.'s forest industry stays competitive in the global marketplace.

Born in Edmonton, Alberta, Barber first came to the University of British Columbia in September 1945. He graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in forestry in 1950. In 1952, he qualified as a professional registered forester and he has been involved ever since in the B.C. forest industry for 57 years, working with people at all levels and throughout the province. In 1978, at the age of 55, he founded Slocan Forest Products Ltd. which he built into one of the leading lumber producers in North America. Barber retired as Chairman in February 2002.

Mr. Barber's leadership has been recognized throughout his career. In 1996, he was awarded the Forest Excellence Award in Communications for his involvement in the publication of The Working Forest of British Columbia. In 1997, he was given the Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year award for the Pacific Region. The Registered Professional Foresters Association named Barber the Distinguished Forester of the Year in 1999. In May 2002, the University of Northern British Columbia awarded him an Honorary Doctorate of Law degree.

Mr. Barber is a visionary thinker who has a strong commitment to strengthening B.C. and improving the quality of life for B.C. residents. Barber's generosity has been instrumental in helping to establish programs to promote research with the creation of the I.K. Barber Enhanced Forestry Laboratory at the University of Northern British Columbia, the Irving K. Barber Diabetes Research Endowment Fund at UBC, and the Ike Barber Human Islet Transplant Laboratory at Vancouver Hospital in partnership with UBC.

Barber and his wife Jean have three children, nine grandchildren, and nine great-grandchildren.

The media release concerning the donation and biographical information on Mr. Barber and are also available.

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Contact

Michelle Cook
UBC Public Affairs
Tel: 604.822.2048
E-mail: michelle.cook@ubc.ca