Loss of an Icon - Fred Barge, DC

The chiropractic profession has lost an icon, and I have lost a dear friend.  Fred H. Barge DC, PhC died Wednesday morning July 2, 2003 at his home in LaCrosse Wisconsin.  The family has chosen to hold a private service for the family.  Fred suffered a sudden heart attack Wednesday morning and died quickly. 

Fred, a second generation chiropractor, was the 9th president of the ICA, a world renowned speaker in chiropractic, and he was a dear friend of mine.  We affectionately referred to each other by the presidential numbers we both held in ICA. I would often get a phone call that started with "Greetings number 11," to which I replied, "Greetings number nine."  As I write this initial report, I can recall countless "Bargisms" as we called them, where his wit and delivery of philosophy of chiropractic and life itself would amaze us and humor us at the same time.

Over the coming days and weeks you will no doubt read much about the life of Fred Barge.  He has, and will always have a profound effect on our profession and on many of us whose lives he has touched.   Fred was one of those rare individuals who always seemed "up".  It was great to work with him, and it was great to socialize with him. We spent much time together over the years and tipped back more than just a few "libations".

The chiropractic profession is much better having had a Fred Barge.  The world is much better having had a Fred Barge.  And my own life is much better having known Fred Barge.

I will miss you my friend, and will end this as you would have, "Enuf Said.

 Bob Braile DC

 


 

Chiropractic loses a great leader and friend -- Dr. Fred Barge leaves behind a legacy of integrity and wisdom

The ICA announces with great sadness the passing of one of its larger-than-life leaders – Dr. Fred H. Barge. Dr. Barge died of a sudden heart attack on Wednesday morning July 2 at his home in La Crosse, Wisconsin.

A life-time ICA member, Dr. Barge was the 9th president of the ICA and was recently elected by an overwhelming majority, vice president of the ICA. World-renowned author, speaker, teacher, mentor and clinician, Dr. Barge leaves behind him a legacy that will be remembered for generations to come.

“ I cannot say how deeply we feel the loss of this great man,” said ICA President, Dr C.J. Mertz. “Fred was always one of my heroes, and when he agreed to run as my vice president I was not only honored, I was in awe. We had a short time together, but I will always be grateful for his wisdom and his sage advice. We will miss him, I will miss him, but he will always be with us in spirit. “

As per Fred's wishes, there will be no formal ceremony, only a small family memorial.  Mrs. Audrey Barge has requested that no flowers be sent but that donations may be made to Palmer College or the ICA.

The ICA has set up a special mailbox so that you can share your "thots" about Fred. We would like to hear from you.  Click here