1950
2013
Paula Barker
Nov. 10, 1950 - May 17, 2013
Paula Barker—endlessly supportive wife, mother, and educator—died May 17, 2013, in Modesto, at age 62.
Paula was born in Fitchburg, Massachusetts, to Robert and Laurette Powell. In 1968, Paula graduated from Leominster High School, where she excelled in basketball, field hockey, and tennis, and was honored as the school's top female athlete.
Paula met her husband Dennis Barker while both were studying at the University of Massachusetts, before they married and moved to Modesto in 1973. In their nearly four decades of marriage, Paula and Dennis were avid travel partners, dedicated walking teammates, and best friends.
Paula, a lifetime educator, loved working with young children. After retiring from her work as a home and hospital teacher, she continued volunteering her tutoring services at John Muir Elementary School for 15 years.
Paula also loved the outdoors, and enjoyed hiking, cross-country skiing, and daily walks around the neighborhood. She was devoted to yoga for 16 years, and leaves behind many friends at Village Yoga Center.
Her compassion for all living things showed in her beautiful flower garden and her love for feline friends.
Paula is survived by her husband Dennis, her sister Gloria Powell (husband Maurice) of Palmyra, Maine, and her sons Ian Barker (wife Megan) of Oakland and Ben Barker of Modesto.
A memorial service for Paula will take place on Saturday, June 1, 2013, at 10:00 a.m. at Franklin & Downs Funeral Home, 1050 McHenry Avenue, Modesto.
In lieu of flowers, please consider contributions to Heifer International, http://www.heifer.org/.
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5 Entries
Dearest Cousins
So sorry to hear of Paula's passing. I know we all did not see each other much but Paula was always so kind to us when were children. My deepest sympathy to you all at this time.
Linda
Linda Williams
August 18, 2013
Dear Dennis,
I have not seen Paula since our High School Days but I remember her lovely smile and team sportsmanship. My heart goes out to you and your family.
Sincerely,
Linda (Dignard) Cadenelli
Linda Cadenelli
May 29, 2013
May God give you strength, support and comfort during these difficult times. Be assured of his deep love and concern for you. 1 JOHN 4:9, 10,19.
With My Deepest Sympathy,
MM D
May 27, 2013
Dear Dennis and family, I have a card to mail today with a long letter to Dennis. Suffice it to say that Paula was one of a handful of students I remember vividly because of her special energy for life! when I was Head of Residence at UMass/Amherst Dwight House. Sending you Light and Love to sustain you,
Barbara Date' (Schuster)
Barbara Date'
May 23, 2013
Paula your friendly smile will be missed!
Darla Mitchell
May 22, 2013
Showing 1 - 5 of 5 results
Funeral services provided by:
Franklin & Downs Funeral Home McHenry Chapel1050 McHenry Avenue, Modesto, CA 95350
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