Lance Barber

Lance Lee John Barber, age 39, of Grand Rapids, Michigan, passed away unexpectedly on May 12, 2023. Lance was born in Portland, Michigan to Kathryn A. Bourdon (Barber) and Craig A. Scheurer. He graduated from Holland High School and attended Grand Rapids Community College. Following culinary school, Lance went on to work at several Grand Rapids' area restaurants. He was an accomplished chef and won numerous culinary awards during his career including the Golden Ladle Award (2011), Iron Chef Judges Choice Award (2017), Larkin's 17'' Annual Chili Cookoff - First Place (2018), and Ada Chili and Beer Festival Champion (2018). He leaves a legacy of determination and inspiration in the restaurant industry. His family includes his beautiful daughters, Alyssa-Mae K. Barber (fiance, Zachary T. Bursley) and Evelyn T. Barber; his mother Kathryn (Jeffrey) Bourdon; his siblings Carrie (Corey) Stammis and Victoria (Ryan) Smalley; and the mothers of his children, Carolyn Sternisha and Riley Vaughn. Lance was preceded in death by his grandfather, Bruce E. Barber, Sr., and great grandmother, Kathryn M. Reed. Lance had an authentic energy that touched everyone he came in contact with. He was a gifted artist, chef, and treasure hunter. Above all, Lance loved his daughters and strived to be the best father he could. He was a genuine soul that will be deeply missed. He will be forever remembered for his kindness and sense of humor. A Celebration of Life will be held Johnson Park (Walker, Michigan) on May 25, 2023 from 4-7pm. Cremation arrangements are entrusted to Michigan Cremation & Funeral Care, Grand Rapids, 616-452-3006. To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Lance Barber, please visit our flower store.