David E. Barker

David Edward Barker

April 27, 1958 - January 23, 2026

David Edward Barker, 67, of Lansing, Michigan, passed away peacefully in his sleep on January 23, 2026, surrounded by his loved ones. After a courageous decade-long battle with cancer, David ultimately won-his soul is now in a better place where there is no more pain, and the cancer has been cremated and lost.

David was born on April 27, 1958, in Lansing, Michigan, to William and Betty Barker. He spent his childhood summers in St. Helen, a place that would later become his beloved home in retirement. On September 8, 1992, he married the love of his life, Lisa, and together they built a life filled with adventure, laughter, and the great Michigan outdoors.

An avid outdoorsman and tinkerer, David was never happier than when he was working on a project or cruising around in one of his beloved Volkswagens. His prized possession, a 1970 VW bus, was a testament to his passion for collecting and participating in VW groups. But ask anyone who knew David, and they'd tell you his grandchildren were his greatest treasure. Whether he was giving them thrilling rides in his VW dune buggy, teaching them to fish, or starting them young with building and tinkering-working on puzzles and Legos together-he was creating memories and passing down his love of hands-on discovery that will last forever.

Throughout his battle with cancer, David became a fierce advocate for men's prostate screening and mental health awareness, turning his own struggle into a mission to help others. His courage, determination, and spirit inspired everyone who knew him.

David is survived by his wife, Lisa Barker; sister Norma Nickerson; children Chris Chase, Brandon Barker, Quentin Barker, and Candace (Benjamin) Robinson; beloved grandchildren KC and Aerabella Chase, Ember and Mason Barker, and Adaline and Jacqueline Robinson. He was also surrounded with love by many nieces and nephews, his cherished mother-in-law Linda Chase, and sisters-in-law Lana Orrison and Larissa Howey. He was preceded in death by his parents, William and Betty Barker; brother Ken Barker; brother-in-law Chuck Nickerson; and father-in-law Lynn Chase.

In keeping with David's spirit, a celebration of life will be held in true outdoor Michigan fashion once the weather is warmer. Date and location details will be announced by the family. David asked that his services be held as he lived-as a celebration.