JAMES L. BARKER, 88, of Rose Hill, Kansas, and formerly of Wichita, Kansas passed away Thursday morning, October 21, 2010 at Lake Point Nursing Home and Rehabilitation Center in Rose Hill.

Born on June 26, 1922 on the family farm east of Winfield, Kansas, he was the son of Delbert and Grace E. (Thirsk) Barker. He was raised and received his education in Winfield and graduated from Winfield High School in 1941. He was employed at Cessna Aircraft at Strother Field as a sheet metal worker before entering the military.

A veteran of World War II, Mr. Barker proudly served his country in the Unites States Army Air Corp and was stationed in Northern Africa and Italy. Following his discharge in 1945, he returned to Winfield and worked for Cessna again in the military and experimental divisions. He also sold insurance with his brother, Sparky Barker for a short time.

He was united in marriage on December 26, 1954 to Mary Joanne Smith in Winfield. He retired from Cessna in Wichita at the age of 70.

James was a member of the American Legion Post #10 and the Veterans of Foreign Wars #3544 where he was a past commander. He enjoyed gardening, watching sports, and playing golf with his dog Andy.

His family includes:
His wife: Joanne of Dexter, KS;
His daughter: Susan Barker of Claflin, KS; and
His son: Tim Barker and wife Melissa of Atlanta, KS;
His sister-in-laws: Marie Barker of Winfield, KS; and Maxine Barker of Arkansas City, KS; Karolyn Smith of Burden, KS; and Mary Barker of Wichita, KS.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brothers, Kenneth (Red) Barker, Winifred (Sparky) Barker and Dr. Benjamin William Barker.

Graveside military services will be held at 10:30 A.M., Monday, October 25, 2010 at Mt. Vernon Cemetery southeast of Atlanta, Kansas. Friends may call Sunday afternoon October 24, 2010 from 2:00 to 6:00, at Miles Funeral Service in Winfield. The family will greet friends from 2:00 to 3:00 P.M., that afternoon.

Memorials have been established in Mr. Barker's name for the Cowley County Humane Society and the Sedgwick County Humane Society. Contributions may be made through the funeral home.