Donald Edward Barrier II

~~~Follow Your Bliss Donald Edward Barrier II (Don) Professional Life: As a pioneer in both the biodiesel industry and North Carolina’s Industrial Hemp Pilot Program, Don’s passion for implementing efficient, sustainable, and safe manufacturing processes while producing high-quality products is what led him to help launch Asheville Botanicals. With a degree in Chemistry from Appalachian State University, Don spent 30 years in the chemical manufacturing industry. As Don’s focus later shifted to emerging technologies within water, food, and alternative energy, his pursuit of unique technologies ultimately led him to create a cutting-edge, high-speed botanical extraction technology which was later tested and validated in Colorado, and then launched a Hemp processing facility, which has evolved to what is now Asheville Botanicals. Don worked with a drive that was incomparable. He wanted his work to stand for something, to be a success, and improve the lives of others. Don was a county commissioner for Caldwell County for a term. Further evidence that he believed he could make a difference and had the drive to do so. Personal Life: Don had many loved ones. He is survived by his son and daughter-in-law Josh & Mikayla Barrier, mother, Jean Helton, sister and brother-in-law Dorothy & Chris Roche, nephews Lee & Reeves Roche, and grand-nieces and a grand-nephew, and brother and sister-in-law Neil & Sherry Barrier. Other very important people in his life: Gina Barrier, Jim Stohl, Mike Sobol, Ann Bolen, Beth Jones, and too many others to name. Don loved and cared for many. He often put others’ needs above his own. Don had heart challenges early in his life. He had a full cardiac arrest over a decade ago and was returned to the living then with CPR performed by his son. Don enjoyed hiking throughout Western North Carolina to visit and photograph waterfalls. He loved dogs, one of many soft spots in his heart. Don was an organ donor and so even at the end of his life, he gave to others to improve their lives. A Celebration of Life Gathering will be held Sunday, July 23, 2023, at 2 pm Union Mills Community Center 6097 Hudlow Road Union Mills, NC 28167 Don’s life lessons to pass on: • Love your family. • Work hard for what you believe in. • Don’t give up. • Pet a dog every chance you get. • Don’t complain too much… it could get worse. 😊 • Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Just ask! • Listen to your body. Don’t ignore health concerns. • Learn CPR. • Be an organ donor. • Everyday is a new day. • “Follow your bliss!”

Tributes

Donald Edward Barrier II

August 3, 1960 - July 10, 2023