Robert Mark Barber

Robert Barber Obituary
Robert (Mark) Barber, 71, of Destin, Florida, a beloved soul whose life was a testament to warmth, generosity, and unwavering love, passed away peacefully at his home surrounded by family on January 20, 2024.
Robert, known to most as "Mark", was born in Mount Carmel, Illinois on September 11, 1952 to Robert (Bob) and Donna (Ewing) Barber. He graduated in the MCHS class of 1970 and worked with his father in the television repair business and briefly at Snap-On-Tools. He and his father opened B&B Muffler in Mount Carmel, Illinois and he was owner of multiple shops in various locations in Illinois and Florida. He then ventured into life safety maintenance for several medical facilities. Mark was a huge music lover and played guitar in a band in his younger years. He moved to Destin, Florida in 1993; the place he called home and resided until death.
Left to grieve is his loving wife and partner of thirty-four years, Angel Dawn Barber, and their six children: Jarod (Claire) Barber, Kristen (Chris) King, Tami (Cait) Byerly, Christina Byerly, Dawnella Byerly Bailey, and Jake Wirth. Additionally, he is survived by eight grandchildren: Taylor Sullivan, Brittany Tryon, Annistyn Balthus, Blake Walker, Tyler Herrin, Jessie Herrin, Caleb Herrin, and Brooklyn Wirth, as well as three great-grandchildren: Greysyn Owen, Maya Tryon, and Lucas Tryon. He is also survived by his two loving fur babies, Rip and Rowdy, whom he adored.
Mark was preceded in death by his parents, Robert (Bob) and Donna Barber.
Mark loved and enjoyed his NASCAR races, boating, cruising, traveling the Caribbean, Australia, Alaska, and other areas, going to McGuire's with his family and friends, and visiting Syd's Place in Illinois to enjoy their infamous tacos with family and friends. He was an avid cards player and enjoyed playing liars poker with lifelong friends, Skip Calabrese and Bobby Woods. Mark never met a stranger and could be found after a long day, on his balcony with an ice-cold beer, watching the boats at Crab Island and enjoying the sunset. Mark's family and friends will be stronger, more joyful, loyal, and courageous because of him, and will never forget the stories and adventures they have shared together throughout the years. The world has lost a light and heaven has gained a new friend.
Respecting his wishes, there will be no service.
Cremation arrangements are under the direction of Davis-Watkins Funeral Home in Fort Walton Beach, Florida. To share memories, express condolences and to sign the guestbook, please visit www.daviswatkins.com.