Michael D. "Mike" Barker

BARKER, Michael D. "Mike," age 64, of Trenton, passed away on Tuesday, February 24, 2026, at Ohio's Hospice of Butler & Warren Counties.

Michael medically retired from PAC Worldwide Corporation in Middletown, where he faithfully worked as a forklift operator. In addition to his career, he was a devoted preacher at Pentecostal Highway of Holiness Church in Hamilton, where he was affectionately known as "Mr. Highway." Mike was a graduate of the class of 1980 at Madison High School.

A proud lifelong member of the Pentecostal Highway of Holiness Church. Mike loved bluegrass gospel music. He enjoyed guitars, fiddles, banjos, and harmonicas, and treasured his collection of cassette tapes and records. He loved singing with his family, preaching, and evangelizing. Mike had a gift for storytelling, loving both hearing and sharing stories. He took great pride in building and tending his raised garden, filled with tomato plants. Mike loved giving to missionaries and giving to God. His dime message was especially meaningful and touched many people. His family will forever see a dime as a special message from Mike. He always preached about Heaven. God gave Mike a glimpse, an out-of-body experience of that wonderful place, just a few days before he was carried away. His words were constant: "peace" and "no pain." Leaving his family with comfort knowing he's playing his harmonica with the angels.

He lived a happy life and was known as a gentle giant, particular in his ways, yet selfless and incredibly giving. He was a friend to everyone, especially to those who may not have had many friends. He always showed up for others and was quick to cheer on the underdog. He was most proud of his beloved wife, his daughters whom he lovingly called his "squirrels," his cherished grandchildren, and his sons-in-law.

Mike was preceded in death by his parents, Rondell and Lillian Barker. He is survived by his loving wife of 41 years, Norma Barker; his daughters, Becca (Ryan) Brown of Ohio and LeAnn (Luke) Beets of Texas; his seven grandchildren, Benjamin, Kennedy, Kaiden, Brooklyn, Lincoln, Roman, Atticus, and a baby Beets on the way; his brother, Mark (Taria) Barker; his sister, Tina Barker; three nieces; multiple great-nieces and great-nephews; along with many extended family members and dear friends.

The family would like to extend a special thank-you to Bill Cornn for his constant care, help, and faithful friendship; Pastor Dallas Lakes for being such a special friend to Mike and the family; and Rev. Mitch Hasty for being such an amazing friend and source of support throughout everything.

Funeral services will be held at 10 AM on Sunday, March 1, 2026, with Rev. Phillip Hoskins, Rev. Dallas Lakes, Ryan Brown, Luke Beets, and Benjamin Brown officiating. Burial will be at 10 am Monday, March 2, at North Monroe Cemetery in Monroe. The family will receive friends from 5 PM to 8 PM on Saturday, February 28, 2026, at the Pentecostal Highway of Holiness Church. If desired, contributions may be made to the Pentecostal Highway of Holiness Church – Missionary Fund. Condolences may be shared with the family at https://www.stubbsconner.com.