David Olen Barlow

David Olen Barlow

October 19, 1941 – Tuesday, February 3, 2026

David Olen Barlow, born October 19, 1941, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, February 3, 2026, at approximately 10:16 a.m. He was deeply loved and will be profoundly missed.

David was born and raised in Southern Oregon and graduated from Phoenix High School, Class of 1959. Shortly after graduation, he entered the United States Army in October of 1959, serving his country with quiet pride. He later completed his service with the Army Reserves in 1967. Following his military service, David attended Southern Oregon College (now Southern Oregon University), where he earned his bachelor's degree.

David met the love of his life, Diane Barlow (Watkins), at Omar's in Ashland in 1968. They married in 1970 and shared a truly good marriage-one rooted in love, laughter, and devotion. Diane preceded him in death in 2003 after a courageous battle with cancer. She once shared that whenever she and David unexpectedly crossed paths around town, his face would light up, he would smile broadly, and wave eagerly just to see her.

Together, they adopted their son, Dorian, when he was four years old and, four years later, adopted their daughter, Katarina (Katie), at age seven. Family was the center of David's life. Because of the steadiness and love Diane brought to their home, holidays always included both sides of the family and were full, loud, and loving.

David and his son Dorian, enjoyed many adventures together. From spending time up at the mine to exploring Lake of the Woods to countless family vacations. To his daughter, David was larger than life. Growing up, she couldn't wait for him to come home from work and always wanted to be near him. He affectionately called her "Katie-did," a name that will forever hold her heart. He had a rare gift for story telling, and making people laugh.

David was a hardworking man who never shied away from labor or responsibility. He logged alongside his own father, spent early morning hours lighting smudge pots in the pear orchards, and later built a successful professional career, working his way up to Regional Director for SAIF Corporation, workers' compensation insurance.

Outside of work, David embraced life fully. He loved traveling-especially by motorhome-and cherished time on the road with family. Summers were often spent water skiing, and winters found him snow skiing. He was also an avid hunter and miner and especially loved working a family gold mine claim near Talent with his father and uncle.

David was preceded in death by his beloved wife Diane Barlow (Watkins) (2003), his brother William (Billy) Barlow (2013), his sister Barbara Donham (Barlow) (2022), and his son, Dorian Barlow (2022).

He is survived by his daughter, Katarina (Katie) Barlow; her two children, Dayonie and Zaydon; his grandson, Drew Barlow, and a niece Kari Donham.

David will be remembered for his warmth, humor, strong work ethic, devotion to family, and love of adventure. His legacy of love and shared memories will live on in all who knew him.

Services:

A service will be held at Perl Funeral Home Friday, March 20, 2026 at 1:00p.m.