The family of Forfar man Kevin Barker, who took his own life after a battle with mental illness, have paid tribute to the lad they say “never had a smile off his face”.
His family’s greatest wish now is that this doesn’t happen again to someone else.
Kevin, 33, who was married to Gillian, passed away on February 12.
The team leader at Don and Low in Forfar and former lifeguard at Forfar Swimming Pool had sought help for his mental health issues before taking his own life.
Mental health help
But a close family member said that sadly he struggled to find the right help at the time he needed it.
However, they say that despite his difficulties Kevin continued to put on a brave face for others and kept smiling.
The family member said: “We want to say to other families to be aware that people hide their mental health issues and when they do seek help there can be a lack of help out there.
“The main message is that we don’t want it to happen again.”
Kevin’s family said that Kevin was passionate about the men’s mental health charity, Andy’s Man Club.
The family spokesperson said: “Sadly for Kevin this had only just opened in Forfar but this is a charity Kevin was passionate about and wanted to raise money for after hearing about it in a podcast .
“Kevin had previously sought help but sadly he wasn’t offered the help for his mental health concerns that he was needing.”
‘Kevin was always smiling’
His family have described Kevin as a “happy wee lad” as a child, saying he was always smiling and was never happier than when he was kicking a football.
He played for several junior and amateur teams including Forfar’s Lochside Boys, Forfar Boys Club and most recently Broughty United – winning top goal scorer most seasons he played.
His family added: “Kevin was also known for his love of music, and for his wee dances he would do.”
Family friend Ross Coverdale has launched a fundraising page to help his family financially.
Fundraising
Ross said: “The thought of Kev’s family having to worry about the costs of a funeral along with everything else they have to go through at a time like this is utterly heart breaking.
“After speaking to a few people who knew him it was clear there are people who want to help in any way they can.
“After getting the family’s blessing to go ahead we set up the GoFundMe.
“The response to the fundraiser so far has been quite remarkable, and it’s our hope that the money raised brings a little comfort for his family knowing that so many people have Kev and his loved ones in their thoughts during this most difficult time.”
Already the fundraiser has reached £4,390, far exceeding the £500 target.
Kevin’s funeral will be held at Parkgrove Crematorium, Friockheim on March 29.
Those attending are asked to wear something green to mark Kevin’s love of Celtic Football Club.
Donations are asked for the RNLI and Andy’s Man Club.
Anyone who is experiencing thoughts of suicide and wants someone to speak to immediately can call the Samaritans at any time on 116 123.
