Kenny Barker

KENNY BARKER

Coggon

Kenny Barker, 94, passed away on March 17, 2017. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, March 21, at St. John's Catholic Church in Coggon, conducted by Father Scott Boone. Burial will be in Mount Olivet Cemetery, Coggon, with military honors provided by American Legion Post 362 of Coggon. This will be followed by a luncheon at the American Legion in Coggon. The family will receive visitors from 4 to 6 p.m. Monday, March 20, at Murdoch Funeral Home in Central City, with a vigil service beginning at 4 p.m.

Kenny, son of Wessie and Lola Barker, was born Nov. 23, 1922, in Coggon, Iowa. Kenny grew up on his family farm, the eldest of three children. He attended Coggon High School and graduated in 1940. It was there that he met the love of his life, Helen McDonell. They were married in 1945, when he was on leave during his duty with the Navy.

In World War II, Kenny participated in and survived the Battle of Tawara, the first American offensive in the critical central Pacific region that exacted a heavy toll on United States forces. This spanned from Nov. 20 to Nov. 23, 1943, including Kenny's 21st birthday. Less than two years later, Kenny was present in New Your City's Times Square on V-J Day, Aug. 14, 1945.

Helen and Kenny lived in Coggon and at a nearby farm all of their lives, where he farmed, and they raised six children. He was a devout Catholic and quietly exemplified his faith every day.

Kenny was known for his honesty and integrity. He was hard-working and deeply loyal to family. He had a calm, modest and friendly demeanor. He often would reveal his sense of humor with folksy sayings. He enjoyed family gatherings, fish fries and watching the Iowa Hawkeyes.

He is survived by his children, Elaine (Ron) Rogers, of Waunakee, Wis., Jan Wilton of Longmont, Colo., Terry Barker of Coggon, Denise (Michael) Mack of Bettendorf, Patricia Horton of Bettendorf and Dave (Rhonda) Barker of Highlands Ranch, Colo. He was blessed with 13 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. He also is survived by his sister, Betty.

Kenny was preceded in death by his wife, Helen; his parents; and a brother, Charlie.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to Disabled American Veterans or a charity of your choice in Kenny's honor.

The family wishes to thank the Hiawatha Care Center staff and Dr. Mary Anne Nelson for the care and compassion shown to Kenny.

Please share a memory of Kenny at www.murdochfuneralhome.com under obituaries.