Geraldine Barker

Biography

Our beloved Bob and Geraldine have left this earthly life to begin their eternal adventure together. Robert passed away on March 31, 2012 and Geraldine followed on April 2, 2012. The family is very grateful for their example of 65 years of devoted companionship.
Robert D Barker was born on April 2, 1919 to Robert and Dicy W. Barker in Escalante, Utah. Robert’s youth was spent as a shepherd in the wilds of Escalante until his service in the Army. Robert was a decorated WWII veteran that served in the South Pacific. Upon return from wartime service Robert attended BYU and graduated with a degree in history. Robert was a well loved educator finishing his career at Northwest Junior High School in Salt Lake City. Robert was active in the LDS Church and a lifetime Scouter and earned a Silver Beaver Award from the BSA. Robert was preceded in death by his parents and sister Glenna Banks. Survived by brother Owen Porter and sister Phyllis Garrett.
Geraldine Bowles Barker came to earth on Sept. 14, 1919, the third daughter of William A. and Catherine B. Bowles. Raised in Nephi, Utah, Geraldine was the last surviving grandchild of Martin Handcart Company pioneer Langley Allgood Bailey. Geraldine also pursued her education at BYU. She also became an educator and taught kindergarten for many years in various districts before retiring in 1982. She was preceded in death by her parents and sisters Virginia Keeler and Catherine Bowles.
Bob met his ‘green-eyed sweetheart’ Geraldine at an English class at BYU and soon found that they were meant for each other. They married on July 14, 1947 in the Manti Temple. Their family grew to include three strapping boys: Steven (Kim), Jerry (Marianne), Kevin (Jolene) and a fiery redheaded girl KarenAnn (Neil Jacobsen). Family life centered on activities in the outdoors. Camping, fishing, hunting, and backpacking were favorite family activities. Church activity included service in scouting, priesthood callings, primary, young women, and many other callings. As the family grew Bob and Geraldine took special enjoyment in their 14 grandchildren and later 11 great-grandchildren. Even as they shared special times camping and at the cabin; Granny and Pa also shared their testimonies through church service, including 25 years of service at the Salt Lake Temple.
This extraordinary couple is survived by their loving family and preceded in death by grandson Daniel and great-grandson Kyler.
The family would like to thank all the wonderful healthcare professionals that gave caring service to Bob and Geraldine in recent months.
Planned services are a viewing on Friday, April 6, 6:30-8:30pm at Russon Brothers Mortuary, 295 N Main Street, Bountiful, Utah. Another viewing will be held at the Bountiful 15th Ward, 1250 South Main, Saturday, April 7, 9:30am-10:30am followed by Funeral Service at 11:00am. Interment-Lakeview Cemetery. Online guest book at www.russonmortuary.com.