Loretta Barker

Buhler- Loretta Barker went to the Lord July 25, 2014 at age 91. She will be missed by many and her memory cherished by all. Mrs. Barker was preceded in death by her husband, WH Buddy Barker in 1992, as well as her longtime companion Mr. John Krantz in 2010. She is survived by Connie Barker Beggs of Columbus, Ks, Dr. Jim Barker of Salado, Tx, and Joyce Barker of Hutchinson, Ks. Grandchildren include Cullen, Heidi, and Jordan Beggs, Nathan and Clifton Barker, and George and Taylor Wideman. Great grandchildren Aiden Barker and Eli Wideman survive as well. Loretta was born and raised in the Kendrick/Chandler, Oklahoma area. Parents were Robert and Nellie Biles. Siblings Helen Feather and John Biles have preceded Loretta in death. Loretta worked in the war effort in Oklahoma City prior to attending and graduating from Oklahoma State University. She met and married Buddy Barker while both were students at OSU. They eventually settled in Columbus, Kansas. Buddy Barker worked as a County Extension agent and in later years had an independent Insurance business. Loretta worked for the State of Kansas as a Social Welfare department case worker, retiring in 1985. Loretta and Buddy had many friends in Columbus where they were known as serious bridge players and active members of First United Methodist Church. Loretta was a caring and loving mother and grandmother. Mrs. Barker moved to Mesa, Arizona in 1994. She had many friends there as well including her sister-in-law, Roberta Barker Scally and Mr. John Krantz, a widower from St. Paul, Minnesota. Loretta and Mr. Krantz moved to Sunshine Meadows in Buhler, Ks in 2008. Loretta was known for her kindness and easily given friendship. She will also be remembered for introducing the fast paced card game, Manipulation, to friends at Sunshine Meadows. A celebration of life will be held at Sunshine Meadows in Buhler on Friday Aug 1 at 2pm in the Chapel. A graveside service will be held at 11 am August 9 at Columbus, Ks. Cemetery on East Country Road. Friends and family are invited to both celebrations. Donations should be made to the charity of one’s choice in care of Buhler Mortuary, Buhler, KS.

Loretta Barker

January 14, 1923 - July 25, 2014