KITTY HAWK — Henry F. Barker Jr., of Kitty Hawk, NC, went to be with his heavenly father and heavenly family on February 12, 2023, at the age of 85. Henry was born September 26, 1937, and raised in Flint, MI, to Henry F. Barker Sr. and Anna Pauline Barker Bradshaw. Henry was a veteran of the US Navy, serving on the Destroyer USS Stickell during the Korean War, including shore duty at Little Creek Base, Norfolk, VA.
Henry started his civilian career as a Power Plant Operator for Virginia Chemical Company in the West Norfolk section of Portsmouth, VA., for 23 years. He continued his career with Anheuser Busch in Williamsburg, VA, for an additional 17-plus years before retiring to Kitty Hawk, NC. After retiring, he became a builder, lumber company manager and a property maintenance officer with Sea Light Properties. Henry was a lifetime member of the Southwark Hunt Club in Surry, VA, since 1959. He was an avid hunter and golfer and the happiest when he was in the woods with nature, building something or caring for his family.
Henry was preceded in death by his parents; the first love of his life, Shelby Davis Barker; his brother, James D. Barker; and sister, Betty Hitchcock.
Henry is survived by the second love of his life, Barbara D. Barker; two daughters, Laura Kauppinen of Suffolk and Terri Cherry (David) of Portsmouth; and two sons, Daniel Barker (Kerri) of Virginia Beach and Ben Barco (Kelly) of Wilmington, NC. He is also survived by four grandsons, David Lee Cherry Jr., Phillip Cherry, Ryan Barker and Rhys Barco; two granddaughters, Sara Kauppinen (Sean) and Vivienne Barco; and three great-grandchildren, Lucas, Nora, and Dayton.
A celebration of Henry’s life will be planned at a later date. Donations in Henry’s name can be made to your favorite charity or Disabled America Veterans. Please share condolences with the family at www.gallopfuneralservices.com. Gallop Funeral Services was entrusted with arrangements.
