Fred G. Barker, 77, a long-time resident of Allenton, Michigan, passed away on April 14, 2023.
Fred was born in Fillmore, Kentucky, on October 5, 1945, the son of the late Martin and Elois (Spencer) Barker.
Fred served his country with the United States Army from 1965 to 1967.
After moving to Michigan, Fred lived and worked on the VanHoosen Farm in Rochester, Michigan. He graduated from Rochester High School in 1963, was drafted into the Army in 1965, and spent most of his military time in Germany as a Courier.
Upon his return to the United States, Fred married Harriette Lee Howcroft in 1968. In 1971 they welcomed their son, Martin G. Barker II.
Fred was employed by General Motors and retired after 41 years of employment. While working, he attended Oakland University, utilizing his GI Bill, and received his Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology.
Fred had many hobbies and interests, and he loved his farm life, his flower gardens, his chickens, music, and his cars. Fred was known by many as the very best storyteller of all time. His words were, “Never let the truth get in the way of a good story,” and he never did. From a bee stinging him in the eye while driving to his truck being swallowed in a sinkhole, he could always keep us laughing with a story.
But with all his loves and interests, he loved nothing more than his family. He was an amazing son, a wonderful brother, and a loving uncle. Still, nothing could compare to his love for his wife Harriette, his son Marty, his daughter-in-law Melanie and his most cherished grandchildren, Martin III and Mallory.
He is survived by Harriette, his wife of 54 years; a son, Martin (Melanie) Barker II; two grandchildren, Martin III and Mallory; sisters, Roxann (Dan) Barker Clouse of Fallbrook, California, and Nancy (Patrick) Barker Heron of Waterford, Michigan; sister-in-law Susan Barker of Wayland, Michigan, as well as numerous nephews, nieces, cousins, his loving caregiver Yolanda Cutino and many friends.
He is preceded in death by his parents Martin and Elois Barker, and his younger brothers, Carl D. Barker and Joseph L Barker.
The family honors the memory of Fred and invites you to visit and share memories Tuesday, April 18, 2023, from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Kaatz Funeral Directors, Capac. Funeral services will be 11:00 a.m. Wednesday with 10:00 a.m. visiting. Rev. Lisa Clark, pastor of Capac United Methodist Church, will officiate.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations are suggested to Visiting Nurse Association & Blue Water Hospice.
For more information and Tribute Wall visit: KaatzFunerals.com
