Ernest E. Barker, true to his understated style, bowed quietly out of this world this past week. Born at home in rural Arkansas on June 15, 1926, he was the middle son of Elizabeth (Keith) Barker and Albert Sidney Barker. His father farmed outside Taylor, Arkansas until he fell ill with tuberculosis. Ernie’s beloved Uncle Perry became his surrogate father after Albert’s death. At age 17, Ernie left home to join the Merchant Marines, becoming an engineer on a victory ship during the Korean War. Upon his return to the US, Ernie worked his way up the ladder at Shell Chemical, in later years working full time and studying law at night. In his law practice, Ernie inspired loyalty among his clients, cultivating many durable friendships along the way. In 1982, he sailed his 41 foot yawl to the South Pacific and back, with two of his sons joining him on separate legs of the journey. In his retirement, Ernie remained active; he helped restore and worked as an engineer on the retired victory ship S.S. Lane Victory. He was a quiet leader in this non-profit organization, and loved the work and his co-workers. Ernie was a gifted woodworker, craftsman, mechanic, and all-around handyman. He was an amateur painter, and he has left his children the gift of many writings documenting his life experiences. He was a voracious reader and extremely intelligent. He was driven, organized and goal-oriented.

Ernie’s two marriages brought him three children and three step-children—he treated all six as his own, and all called him simply, “Ernie.” One daughter, Nanette, preceded him in death as well as one brother, Sid. Surviving him are brother June (Albert, Jr.), cousin Sue (sister to Ernie in everything but name), sister-in-law Florence, and niece Penny; children Reneé, Bill, Bruce, Steve and Phil; grandchildren Tobi, Kaci, Logan, Karson, Cross, Seve, Lexi and Brooklyn; great-granddaughter Devyn; and this entire community of loving friends.

May God bless you with fair weather and calm seas on your eternal voyages.

May God bless you with fair weather and calm seas on your eternal voyages.

May God bless you with fair weather and calm seas on your eternal voyages.

Pat Saville and her son, John, prepare yet another delicious meal for the crew

This month we pay tribute to a very special Lady.  One whose kindness, bright sweet smile, and spunky spirit has made every crew member aboard the S.S. Lane Victory melt.  Her name is Pat Saville, who has lovingly become known to us all as “Mom.”

Born and raised in Los Angeles, Pat is a true native of this glamorous and  multi-cultural city.  Married for 47 years to a husband who was a WWII navy veteran, she has two sons: the youngest, a merchant marine currently working in MSC, and the oldest, who “serves” as one of the most esteemed volunteers on the Lane Victory himself:  the Galley Chef.  Alongside her son, John, she pours heaping amounts of time, care, and love into the preparation of a vast array of delicious gourmet meals which leave every last crew member well-nourished, satisfied, and ready for more.  The organization is lucky to have such talent in the galley, not to mention the best mother-and-son dynamic team ever!

It was in 1999 that Pat came aboard the S.S. Lane Victory for her 1^st cruise.  A delightful experience, to say the least, it would be one she would always remember.  Years later, with the encouragement of her son John, she boarded the ship again; this time as a volunteer.  Since her arrival on the Lane, about a year ago, she has won the hearts of practically all who have met her and are fortunate enough to have partaken in the delectable meals both she and John would create.  Every Saturday she can be seen assisting in preparing entrees for a tasty lunch, whipping up side dishes as well as scrumptious desserts with ease.  Although excelling on a wide variety of cuisines, she has admitted that her specialty is Mexican food.  Yum!

She manages to exude her enthusiasm for taking care of others with lots of “sugar and spice” earning her the beloved nickname “Mom.”  At age 73 she carries an amazing energy that even when health threatens to give her a bad day, she manages to switch on a smile so perfect and bright that causes many to pause and be inspired.  Furthermore and simply put: she just makes you want to pull her in your arms and hug her!  (Yes, the author tends to do just that at every opportunity).

She is a special and highly cherished individual who the ship has been blessed and honored with.  Additionally, her sweetness is contagious.  (Thanks for the toothache!) Mom, YOU ARE EVER LOVED!

John, the cat is out of the bag now.  We know what the secret ingredient is to all of your fantastic dishes.  Make sure you keep your eye on her lest one of us will steal her for ourselves!