Robert Dean Barker passed away peacefully in his home on March 3, 2010. He was a man of boundless humor, kindness, and love of life. Bob loved people, and all who knew him were cheered by his rich wit, positive outlook, and endless storeof jokes, stories, and infectious laughter. He was born on December 31, 1933 to Dean Alexander and Ava Kennedy Barker in Aurora, Utah. He spent his childhood in Escalante where his adventurous spirit thrived. His love of nature developed early while herding sheep with his father, and learning to hunt, fish, and play in the beautiful landscapes of Southern Utah. As a young man he explored Asia and the South Pacific while serving in the United States Navy. He married JoAnn Montrone on October 18, 1958. The two of them spent the next 51 years on an epic adventure building memories full of love, great friends, and a beautiful family. Bob and JoAnn traveled the world together, often with their close group of friends aka "the gang" and family. His charismatic personality and exceptional sense of humor made Bob an extremely likeable person; he was brilliantly entertaining and immeasurably kind. Bob's magnetic personality and sharp wit suited him well for 37 years with Union Pacific Railroad. After retiring, he was given an opportunity to work as traffic manager for Continental Lime. Bob had a tireless work ethic, enjoyed both jobs, and made many lifelong friends. Bob had an amazing ability as a craftsman and mechanic. He was meticulous; if he did it, he did it right. He loved the outdoors, and spent countless hours being a faithful observer and explorer of nature. In 1978 he built his family a nature retreat in the Uintah Mountains, where we have been able to laugh, explore, enjoy good food, and share cherished memories. He loved snowmobiling, fishing, hunting, golfing, and pulling the tail and ears of any dog that crossed his path. He is survived and deeply missed by the love of his life, his "shweetie", JoAnn. She valiantly fought for his life, and her dedicated care certainly lengthened his time on this earth. In his words, "I'm grateful I have her to take care of me. She is the reason I'm still here." He is also survived by his daughter, the quintessential daddy's girl, Susan, and son-in-law Glen Utley, his partner in mischief and greatest admirer, his son Bobby, and daughter-in-law Kim. He was the foundation of character for his four grandchildren Sam, Hilary, Casey, and Janiece. Bob will be missed by his brothers whom he loved very much Ted (wife Judy) and Steven. He is preceded in death by his parents Dean and Ava. The family would like to thank Summit Healthcare for their tender, dignified, and compassionate care. Funeral services will be held Monday, March 8, 2010, at 11:00 a.m. A viewing will be held Sunday, March 7, 2010, from 6:00-8:00 p.m. and friends may call one hour prior to the funeral. All services will be held at Larkin Sunset Gardens Mortuary, 10600 South 1950 East.
Published in the Deseret News from March 6 to March 7, 2010.