Richard Emerald Barker

Richard Emerald Barker, 95, passed away Tuesday, February 17, 2026. He was born October 5, 1930 in Houlton, Maine on his mother's birthday. She said, "My! What a wonderful birthday present." He knew she said it because he was there.

Richard was the son of the late Emerald J. Barker and Ruth Wilkins Barker of Houlton, Maine. Richard graduated from Houlton High School in 1948 and Ricker College in 1952. He went to work for Sears Roebuck and Company in Houlton and then as manager of the Sears store in Fort Fairfield, Maine. In 1958 he bought a partnership in the Easton Center Store and in 1960 bought out his partner and became sole owner. He worked as owner until 1989 when he retired.

He sang in the Barbershop Chorus and then the quartet "The Maine Event" for many years and directed the chorus for several years. The Southern Aroostook Agricultural Museum in Littleton, Maine was one of his interests and he volunteered there for many years. He met a lovely lady, Carmeline Dickinson in 2007, who liked to dance, play guitar and sing. He accompanied her with the Harmonica. They also enjoyed singing harmony. For many happy years they sang and played all over Aroostook County and danced along the way. He was on the Easton Town Board of Selectman for 3 years, 1974-1977, Chairman 1975 - 1976. He spent several years with SAGE at UMPI and Probus Club in Presque Isle, Maine.

He was predeceased by his parents, three sisters, Jeanne Clark, Joyce Maddocks, Nydda Lowery and one brother, Elwood Barker.

He is survived by many nieces and nephews.

A graveside service will be held at a later date. Donations in Richard's memory may be made to the charity of one's choice or The Southern Aroostook Agricultural Museum S.A.A.M. 304 Campbell Road Littleton, ME 04730.