Remembering the Legacy of Calgary's Beloved Children's TV Icon, Ron "Buck Shot" Barge

Hundreds gathered on a somber Friday in September 2024 to bid a final farewell to Ron "Buck Shot" Barge, a beloved children's television personality who had captivated young audiences in Calgary for decades. The memorial service at the Centre Street Church in Calgary was a testament to the enduring impact Barge had on the lives of countless children and families in southern Alberta.

Celebrating the Life and Legacy of a Calgary Icon

A Lifelong Passion for Entertaining Children

Ron "Buck Shot" Barge's four-decade-long career as a children's television personality in Calgary was a testament to his unwavering passion for bringing joy and laughter to young audiences. From 1967 to 1997, Barge's program, featuring skits, songs, and beloved puppet sidekick Benny the Bear, became the longest-running children's television show in Canadian history. For generations of Calgarians, Barge's infectious energy and genuine connection with his young viewers made him an unforgettable figure in their formative years.Barge's son, Ken, recalled that his father's dedication to entertaining children was not just a job, but a true calling. "All he did was play. He had a passion for doing stuff and making people happy, and that's what he did," Ken said. Barge's unique approach to children's television, blending music, humor, and interactive elements, created a one-of-a-kind experience that left a lasting impression on those who grew up watching him.

A Beloved Figure in the Calgary Community

Beyond his television persona, Barge was known for his warm and genuine personality, which extended far beyond the screen. Hundreds of people, many wearing Calgary Flames jerseys at the request of the family, gathered to pay tribute to the beloved entertainer, underscoring his deep connection with the local community.Barge's daughter, Brenda, spoke fondly of her father's unique upbringing, recalling how he didn't wear a suit and tie to work, but instead played songs and carried around a puppet. "Sometimes it was like, you're a teenager and you just want to be not special, you want to be just in with the crowd, but I was always really proud of my dad," she said.The memorial service was a reflection of Barge's multifaceted life, with music, family, friends, humor, and the Calgary Flames all playing a central role. Eulogies from longtime friends, fellow musicians, and television personalities painted a picture of a man who was not only a beloved entertainer but also a devoted husband, father, and community member.

Leaving a Lasting Legacy

As the hundreds of mourners gathered to celebrate Barge's life, it became clear that his impact extended far beyond his television career. He was a true icon in the Calgary community, a figure who had touched the lives of countless children and families over the course of his remarkable career.Barge's son, Ken, summed up the sentiment of the day, saying, "I think in our heart of hearts, if we didn't have to do this for him, it wouldn't be this big. But he was a showman. He was an entertainer. You just want him to have this joy in his last hurrah."The legacy of Ron "Buck Shot" Barge will continue to live on in the memories of those who grew up watching him, and in the countless lives he touched through his unwavering dedication to bringing joy and laughter to children. His impact on the Calgary community is a testament to the power of entertainment to inspire, educate, and bring people together.