John Barber

John Lloyd Barber, age 59, of Herman, MN, passed away unexpectedly on February 14, 2025. He was born on January 4, 1966, in Minneapolis, MN, the only child of the late John William and Geraldine Kay Barber.

John’s dedication to service began early. While attending high school in Morris, MN, he enlisted in the U.S. Army during his junior year. A proud veteran, he began basic training with the Infantry, Company C, 2nd Battalion, at Fort Benning, Georgia, in 1983. After graduating from high school in 1984, he completed the remainder of his training with Company E, 6th Battalion that same year.

In 1985, John met the love of his life, Wanda Stoneburg, who had a son, Jeromey. In 1988, they welcomed their son, Justin, completing their family. Shortly after they moved to Wanda’s family farm where they called home for nearly 40 years.

John was one of a kind—a man who lived life to the fullest and embraced every day with a genuine enthusiasm. He was the kind of person who would quite literally give you the shirt off his back, always ready to lend a helping hand. He approached everything he did with a head-first, no-looking-back attitude, inspiring those around him to be the best versions of themselves.

John always had time for a chat. His stories, often vaguely related, were a source of laughter and a sense of community. He had a knack for fixing or building anything, often turning the ordinary into something remarkable. His big ideas and determination meant he never gave up on anything or anyone. John truly had a different way of looking at life and it showed in everything he did.

John’s career path was as hardworking and dynamic as he was. He worked alongside his father at Lampert Lumber before finding a long-term position at Environment Control Systems of Morris, MN. Eventually, he struck out on his own, founding John’s Equipment, specializing in livestock equipment installations and remodels. His reputation for quality craftsmanship earned him the trust of farmers across the Midwest. Never one to shy away from a challenge, he took on a wide range of projects, from the typical hog barns to kennels for award winning hunting dogs and even preserving historic barns. John poured his heart into every project.

The business transformed into a family endeavor, with each member involved, creating cherished memories as they worked together. Over time, this expanded to include family friends and often anyone that was in need of work. His work provided the perfect opportunity to explore new places and indulge his adventurous spirit.

Never one to sit still, John eventually transitioned into trucking. He started driving for local companies between projects before purchasing his own truck and becoming an owner-operator. He embraced life on the road, enjoying the freedom and challenges that came with it.

John was deeply devoted to his family. Despite working long hours, he made time to attend his children’s and grandchildren's activities and was always there to support them any way he could. He had a passion for hunting, fishing, and motorcycles, but his love for cars was unmatched. He could talk for hours about makes, models, and engines, knowing every detail that set them apart. His soundtrack was classic rock—AC/DC, ZZ Top, and Lynyrd Skynyrd, always playing in the background.

John is survived by his beloved partner, Wanda Stoneburg; his sons: Justin (Amanda) Barber of Sebeka, MN; and Jeromey (Leann) Stoneburg of Chanhassen, MN; and his cherished granddaughters: Olive, Hazel, and Cora. He was preceded in death by his parents.

Though he is gone, his spirit, stories, and the impact he made on those around him will live on forever.

A Memorial Service will be held Friday, February 21, 2025 at 1:00 p.m. at the Morris American Legion Post 29 in Morris, Minnesota with Rev. Heather E. Klason officiating. Visitation will be held one hour prior to service time at the Legion. Burial will be in Vinger Cemetery, Donnelly, Minnesota at a later date. No need to dress up - feel free to wear your blue jeans and AC/DC shirt if you'd like.