Gregory Duane Barker, "Greg" as he was known to family and friends, son of Larry Barker and LaDeene Slater was born March 23, 1973 in Stroud, Oklahoma.
A Memorial Service for Greg will be held on Thursday, May 5, 2011 beginning at 6:30 p.m. at the Krebsbach and Kulseth Funeral Home Chapel in Bowman.
He moved to Cave Creek, Arizona where he attended school graduating from Cactus Shadows High School, where he was an All State starting quarterback both his junior and senior years. He joined the United States Marines in April of 1992 and served until he received an honorable discharge in 1996.
Gregory D Barker II was born to Greg and Heather Viti Barker on January 29, 1992 in Phoenix Arizona. They later resided in Okinawa, Japan and Manassas, VA.
Greg moved to Attica in 1997 and attended Pratt Community College until receiving his associate degree and graduating with honors. He was also listed in Who's Who among college students.
On July 13, 2002, Greg was united in marriage with Val Singleton in Las Vegas, Nevada and from that marriage two children were added, Ashley and Alex Price. They made their home in Bowman, North Dakota.
He joined the United States Army in 2006 and recently returned from 15 months in Iraq and had just received his honorable discharge.
He was visiting Attica where he and his father were building a home.
On Sunday morning, April 24, 2011, Greg passed away from injuries received in a pickup accident south of Attica.
He will be deeply missed by his wife, Val Barker of the home in Bowman, North Dakota; his children: Gregory Duane Barker II of Cave Creek, Arizona, Alex Price of Bowman, North Dakota and Ashley Price of Los Angeles, California; father, Larry and his wife, Barbara Barker of Dewey, Arizona; mother, LaDeene Slater of Olympia, Washington; sisters: Kim Barker of Attica, Kansas, Lynne Troup, and Leslie Jones and her husband, Lance, both of Olympia, Washington; other relatives and many friends.
Greg was an adventurer, warrior, and scholar. He found kindred souls in the likes of Walt Whitman, Jack London, Mark Jenkins, and Ralph Waldo Emerson. And like any true poet and pioneer, he was a step ahead of his time. Forward thinking and fearless he didn't balk at new challenges or experiences. His life was filled with extreme outdoor activities including rock climbing, hiking, cross country skiing, kayaking, and back country camping. No matter the circumstances or terrain you always felt safe when he was the leader. During his fifteen month tour in Iraq he became hero and mentor to many young men. Promoted twice, his natural leadership abilities did not go unnoticed. Greg was a passionate man and when that passion led him back to the United States he settled in Bowman, North Dakota to live a simple life as a carpenter. It was enough for him to continue his adventures with his loving family by his side in the wilderness of the quiet country that he loved.
Funeral services were held at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, April 30, 2011 at the Attica Faith Baptist Church with Pastor Rusty Hammer officiating. Congregational Hymns "How Great Thou Art", "Amazing Grace" and "When The Roll Is Called Up Yonder" were accompanied by organist Audrey Elliott. Military graveside services were provided by the Fort Riley Honor Guard at the Attica Cemetery.
Memorials may be given in memory of Greg to the Faith Baptist Church and can be sent in care of the funeral home. Prairie Rose Funeral Home ~ 613 W. 14th St. Harper, KS 67058 ~ was in charge of arrangements. To sign online registers or to view obituaries, visit www.prairierosefuneralhomes.com.