John Werley Barker, 64, of Poplar Grove died Thursday, July 30, 2009, in OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center, after a long illness. Born March 24, 1945, in Fairmont, Minn., the son of John F. and Merva (Hayworth) Barker. He lived and grew up in Ceylon, Minn. John married Connie Pech on April 1, 1967, in Armstrong, Iowa. He worked 32 years for Chrysler and 10 years for the village of Poplar Grove. John was a member of the UAW and was an avid Minnesota Vikings fan. He enjoyed showing horses, bowling, cutting and selling firewood, and hobby farming with his friend Fred. John was a veteran of the Viet Nam War, serving in the U.S. Army. Survivors include wife, Connie; children, Angela (Rob) Eisele, Jennifer (Mark) Jaeger, John (Tiffany) Barker, Anita Barker; grandchildren, Bo Eisele, Gus Eisele, Kacie Barker, Caroline Barker; sisters, Sarah Barker, Cindy (John) Guerdet; brother, Bill Barker. Predeceased by parents; and daughter-in-law, Donna Barker.

A memorial will be established in care of his family.