In Memory of

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Mike Barker

It is with profound sadness that we share the heart-breaking news of the passing of Mike Barker, our Finance Director. Mike passed unexpectedly on 29th June. The loss we feel from his absence is immeasurable. Our deepest condolences are with Mike’s family and friends at this time, with whom we are in contact and will support in any way we can.

Throughout Mike’s time at GFSL he has been a key member of the finance function, leading on 2 successful end of year audits with the NAO,  introducing better ways to manage our project costs and more recently stepping up in the Finance Director role.  Mike was tenacious in his role, particularly in the area of accrued income – for those that worked closely with him will know that all too well.  The team will miss his good humour, his matter of fact approach and his passion.

We recognize that this news may deeply affect some of you who had developed close relationships with Mike. We extend our utmost sympathies and encourage you to reach out for any support you may require during this difficult time.

For those who did not have the opportunity to work closely with Mike, we kindly ask that you respect and be mindful of the emotions of those grieving the loss of their colleague, mentor, and friend.

We extend our deepest condolences to Mike’s family and loved ones. May they find strength and solace during this challenging time.

With deepest sympathy,

 

Team GFSL

Book Owner: Executive Team GFSL
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Josh Swift

Sending my condolences to Mike’s family at this difficult time. Mike was a great man to work under and I will miss his frequent visits up to Sheffield, where the conversation would usually go down the path of football and his beloved Palace! …

Toni Lancaster

Extending my deepest sympathies to Mike’s Family and Friends.   It was a pleasure to work for Mike; he was kind, approachable and supportive.  His good sense of humour got us through the busy and sometimes stressful days.   He will be greatly missed and fondly remembered.  My thoughts are with you. …

Colin Allars

My sincere condoloences to Mike’s family, friends and colleagues.  His passing has shocked us all.  He was respected by us all for his professionalism, his obvious care for others and the quiet leadership that he always displayed.  We will all miss him.  Colin Allars, Chair GFSL …

Katie Gibbons

I thoroughly enjoyed working with Mike. He was always helpful and informative when I had questions around finance – especially when I needed him to clarify something said in a meeting for the minutes! I hope that you will not mind me sharing a funny story….. Last summer Mike and I had a video call, to be fair to him it wasnt in the diary, just a quick query. I live near Blackpool so the weather for me is never usually the same as that of who I talk to. Anyway, it must have been particularly hot where Mike was, because he answered the call and resolved my query, all while being completely topless. He had no clue and I kept thinking any second now he’ll realise. He did not. I said “looks hot where you are Mike” he replied whilst pulling the curtain over the wndow a little more to block out the sun, still not an ounce of recognition. I confess that when our call had ended, I rang a colleague laughing in good humour. I think they told him, but he and I never spoke of it, and there was not a hint of embarrasment when …

Jennie Oliver

My deepest condolences to Mike’s family. He was a great man with a dry sense of humour who could make you laugh with a wry smile or raised eyebrow. He will be very much missed by all of us at GFSL. May he rest in peace. …

Robert Cable

So sorry for Mike’s family. Mike was an exceptional boss, who always had time for you, and a good sense of humour, kept Finance relatively calm. He leaves a big gap. …

Gene Axson

My deepest condolences to the Barker family.  I did not work with Mike much but the dealings I had with him, he was fair, to the point and kind.  He will be sadly missed.   …

James Hayward

My most sincere and heartfelt condolences to the Barker family. Mike was a real gentleman and I enjoyed working with him at GFSL, a consummate professional who will be greatly missed by all at GFSL. I wish the Barker family courage and peace during this sad time of loss and mourning.Requiscat en Pace. …

Nicki Stravens

So deeply saddened to hear the news of Mike’s passing, our thoughts are with his friends and family at this difficult time.  Mike was an integral part of our business, he will be a greatly missed colleague.  Nicki …

Shyam Patel

I am grateful to have had the opportunity to meet and work with Mike, and deeply saddened to hear about his sudden passing away. Wishing all of his friends, colleagues and family solace in these difficult times. Rest easy Mike, all the best, Shyam …