Donald Barker Obituary
Obituary published on Legacy.com by River Valley Funeral & Cremation on Oct. 23, 2023.
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Donald (Don) Barker passed away at his home in Omak, Washington with his loyal dog and companion Spot, by his side.
Don was born in 1954 to parents Don and Joyce, in Wenatchee, Washington. The family would move to Okanogan County where Don would grow up in the areas of Loomis, Conconully, Okanagan and then Omak, where he attended High School, he grew up with two brothers and two sisters, and countless loving cousins. Don was especially close with his brother Larry Barker and his cousin Charlotte Barker Markel, who he referred to as his sister. The family made a lifetime of memories together.
If you had the opportunity to know Don then you would know he had a passion for motorcycles. He had some of the wildest experiences and stories to share. Aside from his clear love of bikes, Don was an excellent chef! He loved to prepare meals for his family and friends. Chili was one of his specialties, but he also enjoyed making up his own concoctions with whatever he had available.
Don would earn an associate degree from Wenatchee Valley Community College where he would start his career as an auto mechanic. Don thoroughly enjoyed working on cars, trucks, motorcycles, you name it. And he was good at it. Oftentimes there would be several vehicles he would have at his home that he would be working on for his family and friends.
In 1989, Don married Dixie Martin. Together they raised four children: Jeff, Alex, Jessica, and Codie. The family moved from Wenatchee to Peshastin, a place they would call home for many years to come.
Don was a force to be reckoned with, but a fierce friend and family member to have on your side. Don was infamous for his stories and experiences throughout his lifetime. He would always try his best to turn each situation into a joke, to get a smile out of you. (appropriate circumstances or not) In 2005, Don returned to his hometown of Omak, He reconnected with old friends and family there. Don lived a
fulfilling and adventurous life. Nothing put a smile on his face more than spending time back home, talking about his children, his family, and storytelling with his closest pals George, Charlie, His brother, Larry and "Sister" Charlotte.
Don will be missed terribly by all.
Don leaves behind his four children: Jeff Barker, Alex Martin, Jessica Barker, and Codie Barker (Irving Gutierrez) Two Grandchildren: Kamiah and Macie Brothers and sisters: Larry, Phil, Linda and Jeannie His cousin Charlotte Markel and her family. Close friends: George and Charlie
His best friend "Spot" who is enjoying all the belly scratches and treats he can get from Don's brother Larry and friend Charlie, who graciously chose to adopt him. And all the countless friends he's made in his 69 years.
The family wishes to express their profound gratitude to the family and friends of Don in Omak, who have lovingly taken such good care of Don, and River Valley Funeral Home for all their hard work and compassion during this time.
A celebration of life will be held at a later date by the family.