Kurtis Mitchell Barkley

Kurtis Mitchell Barkley, 50, of Hickory, passed away on Friday, March 28, 2014, after a courageous battle with a rare form of cancer, at Catawba Regional Hospice. Born in Salina, KS on December 3, 1963, he was the son of Paul A. Barkley and Rachel G. Barkley. Kurt was a man that lived life with a passion. He loved his family. He enjoyed cooking, nature and was a dynamic sports photographer. Kurt enjoyed running, and participated in many marathons, including the Boston Marathon and the Marathon des Sables – a six day ultra-marathon across the Sahara Desert. He finished des Sables 9th overall, and was the highest American finisher. No one ever lived life any fuller and more carefree than Kurt.

In addition to his parents, Kurt is survived by his wife of 23 years, Jacquelin Dellinger Barkley, daughter, Lauren Barkley and boyfriend Ross Kennedy, sons, Logan Barkley, Luke Barkley and Lawson Barkley; and brother, Fred Barkley and wife Lesia.

Please join us in celebrating his life at 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, March 30, 2014 at Drum Funeral Home in Hickory with Rev. Jamie Steele officiating.

The family will enjoy fellowship and memories of Kurt following the service.

Memorials may be given St. Stephens Lacrosse Program, 3205 34th Street Dr. NE, Hickory, NC 28601 or Catawba Regional Hospice, 3975 Robinson Road, Newton, NC 28658

Kurt’s life can be best summed up by a poem.

“If I had my life to live over

I’d dare to make more mistakes next time.

I’d relax, I would limber up.

I would take fewer things seriously.

I would take more chances.

I would climb more mountains and swim in more rivers.

I would eat more ice cream and less beans.

If I had to do it again, I would travel lighter than I have.

I would start barefoot earlier in the spring.

And stay that way later in the fall.

I would go to more dances.

I would ride more merry-go-rounds.

I would pick more daisies.”

- Nadine Stair-