In Memory

Geoff Barker

Our former European Division colleague and friend, Geoffrey W. Barker, 63, passed away on May 11, 2021, in Oro Valley, Arizona. A popular and outgoing member of the staff, Geoff joined UMUC in Europe when he finished U.S. Air Force service. He held several jobs in the ED from the early 1980s to the middle 1990s. During that time he pursued his Maryland bachelor’s degree and became an academic advisor after achieving that goal. While with Maryland in Heidelberg, Geoff also earned a master’s degree from Bowie State University.

Geoff had three sons with former wife, Sabine: Wesley, Kyle and Riley. Wesley posted an online tribute to his father that, in part, reads: “He was a military veteran who served honorably, and he was the kindest person I knew in life. He loved his children and his grandchildren, his brothers and sister. You could see glimpses of his inner most feelings come to the surface every so often, and those were personally my favorite moments. Memories that I will cherish. Our oldest daughter, Elena especially formed a close bond with her grandfather. On a lighter (or sadder) note, Elena would chat with her Opa on her tablet from time to time and the last message she sent to him a few days ago was especially heartfelt. Wherever he is, I pray that God finds mercy on him, and that we’ll meet again. I love you Dad.”

Ashley Paige has set up a fundraiser on behalf of the family to cover funeral costs. More information is at: https://www.facebook.com/donate/532526054438867/.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Evergreen Mortuary, 3015 N Oracle Rd., Tucson, Arizona (520-888-7470). Service details and obituary will be posted as soon as they become available.



 
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05/21/21 11:02 AM #1    

Rachel Borg

Geoff, while I did not him very well, he was a super nice guy.  A great colleague; always cheerful and helpful. His latest facebook picture posts showed him enjoying his grandchildren or having a cocktail and other activities that the good life of retirement offered.  I will miss seeing his smile. We all know life is short; reminder, be happy and be kind.  Rest in peace, Geoff.   


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