Craig Matthew Barkman

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved father, son, brother and friend, Craig Barkman age 46, on July 16 2025. 

He will be deeply missed by his loving daughters Sydney and Lauren, his sisters Carrie Barkman and Lisa Balcaen (Francois), brother Jeff Barkman (Megan), Kash Amor, Presley Kroeker, as well as many nieces, nephews and friends.

Craig was born on September 24, 1978 to Glenn and Kathy Barkman in Winnipeg, Manitoba.

Craig grew up in Steinbach, MB. He was an active and adventurous child and spent most of his time exploring and playing outdoors with siblings and friends. A neighbourhood wide game of “Cops and Robbers” was always on the agenda. Craig’s love of dressing up started very young. He loved his cowboy costume, and as a 5-year-old he wore nothing but his superman costume, zooming around pretending to fly and rescue people and pets. A theme that he carried into his professional life. Sports were a dominant love in his life. Craig was a gifted hockey player and coach, he was most proud of his success on the Eastman Selects throughout his teenage years.

Craig married his high school sweetheart Astrid in 1997, and they enjoyed many years of love, adventure, entertaining friends and raising their two daughters Sydney and Lauren. Craig loved spending time with his daughters. Some of their fondest memories of him include fishing at the lake, going to jets games, and grilling them the best steak dinners. He was a fantastic dad who always offered support and gave the best advice to his kids.

Craig had a passion for helping those in need so he applied for fire college at just 22 years of age. In 2001 he joined the Winnipeg Fire Department and was finally able to pursue his passion for saving lives and helping people. Earlier this year he achieved his life long dream of becoming captain. He always valued the strong brotherhood in the fire department and expressed that his crew was like family to him. He was a great leader and a hard worker which helped him excel in many areas of his life.

Craig also had a love for property development and business management. This line of work connected him with so many people and he valued all the friendships he made along the way.

We are devastated that he passed so young. He will be dearly missed by so many people. The family would like to express their thanks for all the love, kindness, and friendship shown to them at this time of loss and for your attendance here today.

A celebration of life will be held at 1:00 pm on Friday July 25, 2025 at Crossview Church, 345 Loewen Blvd., Steinbach, MB. Followed by a reception in the reception hall.