Eric Barham

1955 - 2021

Eric Barham
July 29, 1955 - February 2, 2021
Guthrie, Oklahoma - On Tuesday, February 2, 2021, Eric Alan Barham passed away unexpectedly from natural causes in his sleep at the age of 65 at his home in Guthrie, OK. Eric was a loving father, son, brother, uncle, cousin, and dear friend to so many. He was born on July 29, 1955 in Wichita, KS to Doran Welton Barham and Alice Kathleen (Kathie) Barham. After graduating from Wichita East, he completed horseshoeing school in CO and later an apprenticeship in OK. His career as a renowned professional farrier for horses all over the United States was a great source of pride for him and for his family. He treated all of his clients' horses – world and national champions, lesson horses, pasture horses – with the same high standard of care, craftmanship, and attention to detail. His strong reputation as a skilled and talented farrier was enhanced by his honesty and kindness.
He was also an expert silversmith and jewelry artist. His pieces shine with imagination, thoughtful details, and the same care and kindness that he put into everything in his life. The power of art was seen in so many aspects of Eric's life – his love of music, poetry, reading, studying Native American cultures and art, silversmithing, shoeing horses, awe of nature's beauty and strength, and so much more. His artistry was a strong thread weaving through his life and relationships. The following quote by St. Francis of Assisi was quite meaningful to him: "He who works with his hands is a laborer. He who works with his hands and his head is a craftsman. He who works with his hands and his head and his heart is an artist."
He was a devoted father to Cheyenna Rose Starkovich (Ryan) and Jessie Danielle Barham (Anton Weissenberg); loving "Granddad Eric" to granddaughters Savannah Paige Moore and Maree Rose Starkovich; son to Doran Welton (who preceded him in death) and Alice Kathleen (Kathie) Barham; caring brother to Debbie Sundgren (Kent) and Emily Barham; and dear friend to many. To have known Eric is to have known one of the good ones. He drew people close to him with his easy kindness, generous spirit, honest connection, and well-timed wit. He cherished his family and friends and loved with effortless kindness.
His memorial service and celebration of life will be postponed until his family and friends will be able to attend, probably this spring. The family greatly appreciates the outpouring of love, prayers, and support. He will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him. Those wishing to leave remembrances may do so on his Facebook page. Memorial gift fund will be established at a later date.