Berkley C. Barker, 87, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his loved ones on Friday, March 14, 2025. He was born to Herbert C. and Marie G. Barker on March 3, 1938 in Coeur d’ Alene, Idaho. The Barkers moved to Plains, Montana where Berkley attended school and helped at the Barker’s Service Station. Berkley enlisted in the Navy in March 1955. He loved telling his stories of being a machinist on his beloved U.S.S. Abbot.
After an honorable discharge, he pursued his hobbies of racing and working on cars, riding motorcycles, four-wheelers, and riding bicycles. Basically anything with wheels. He enjoyed hunting, camping, fishing, canoeing and hiking and staying fit. He was in his element in the woods. He loved picking huckleberries (thank you, dad, for showing me your spots) and teaching gun safety. He always enjoyed working on vehicles, either replacing an engine or instructing maintenance to his daughters.
He had many jobs throughout his life, working construction, forestry, driving logging trucks or delivery driving. He attended electronics schooling and his last job working at the White Pine and Sash Mill until it shut down.
He had many friends throughout his work and personal life that was fulfilling for him and his hobbies. He loved working in his garden and living a quiet life at his home in Stevensville. He spent the last years of his life with schnauzers and his daughter’s horse that adored him. He loved playing Farkle and reading lots of books. He listened to a lot of music, one of his favorite songs was “Old Hippie” by the Bellamy Brothers, I think that song just resonated with him. He was honest to a fault and a man you could count on, if he said he was going to be there, he was, and 15 minutes early and you better be ready. He had a quiet nature and left an absence in hearts that will never be filled.
He is preceded in death by his son Berkley “Herbie” Barker, his father and mother Herbert C. and Marie G. Barker. He leaves behind one adopted son, Ken Barker, his daughters Lisa Sickles, Becky Barker, Tanya Sharbono and many grandchildren and great grandchildren, and two schnauzers. You are missed beyond any words, dad. Rest in peace and may the Lord hold you and keep you until we see you again.
No services will be held. Condolences and memories may be shared with the family at www.whitesittfuneralhome.com.
