Surrounded by family, Sheridan resident Bob Barker, 90, passed away peacefully at Sheridan Manor on Monday.

Bob was born to George and Ernestine (Jaccar) Barker in Butte Montana. He was the second oldest of six boys, raised on the family ranch in Parkman, Wyoming. Bob and his brothers attended the Little Blue School and then graduated from Sheridan High School.

After High School Bob joined the Civilian Conservation Corps and worked at the CCC camp in Dayton Wyoming. He was a horseman and soon joined the 115th Cavalry. When the Second World War began Bob wanted to fly and soon applied and was accepted into the Army Air Corps. He was stationed in Europe for most of the war and flew C-47 Skytrains. Bob retired a Captain with the National Guard and kept his flight status active until retirement.

Bob married Stella Scrutchfield Bessette on November 26, 1953 and they raised two children, Russ Bessette and Robby (Barker) Smith. Bob was a contractor with Barker Brothers Incorporated and worked closely with his brothers.

Bob was a lifetime member of the American Legion, the Elks Club, Veterans of Foreign Wars, and the National Rifle Association. He enjoyed the Big Horns, especially hunting elk with family and friends; caring for the cattle at the ranch through the years, traveling, especially to his 315th Troop Carrier reunions, and spending time with his family.

Bob was preceded in death by his mother, father, and five brothers; George, Gabe, Phil, Joe and Gene.

Survivors include his wife Stella Barker, daughter Robby Smith and her husband John, son Russell Bessette and his wife Teresa. He also is survived by grandchildren, Meghan Nedwick, her husband Lars, Alicia Smith, and Nick Bessette. Two great grandsons, Otto and Arne Nedwick complete the family.

Funeral services will be held at Champion Ferries Funeral Home at 10:00 am on Friday February 20th with George Tellez officiating. Internment will be in the Sheridan Elks Cemetery, followed by a gathering of family and friends at the Elks Club for lunch and remembrances. Memorials may benefit the Sheridan Elks Club or a charity of your choice.

Bob will be remembered by his family as a true gentleman and a loving husband, dad, and Papa.

SheridanMedia.com - February 18, 2009.