Royal Distinction for Mr. Barbier
Mr. B. (Barend) Barbier (84 years old) received a Royal Decoration from Mrs. Petra Dassen-Housen, mayor of Kerkrade, on October 5 for his many years of service as a volunteer at Kabouter speeltuin Heidsjer Hofje. He was appointed Member in the Order of Orange-Nassau.
For more than 45 years, Mr. Barbier has been putting his heart and soul into Gnome Playground Heidsjer Hofje, where he is present daily to keep everything running smoothly. The first years as a volunteer and the last 40 years as manager.
Grandpa, as he is affectionately called by the entire neighborhood, is not only physically present at the playground, but his involvement goes much further. Even when he is not on site, he remains unflaggingly committed to keeping the playground running.
His dedication does not stop at maintaining the playground. For the volunteers and visitors, he is always available with a listening ear and good advice. His door is always open, both at home and at the playground, and he knows how to make everyone feel welcome.
In his long career, Mr. Barbier has also played an important role in youth and youth work. For him, there were no "difficult children," only difficult situations in which children and their parents could find themselves. His inexhaustible energy, wisdom and compassion left an indelible impression on the community.
Thanks to his years of dedication and commitment, he has become a true neighborhood father, a role model for many, and an irreplaceable pillar of support in the neighborhood.