Melvin Hubert Barker

Melvin Barker, 86, died peacefully on Tuesday, February 1, 2022. Born June 12,1935 in Rockdale, Texas, to Hubert and Lottie Barker, Melvin attended and graduated from Manor High School. He married the love of his life, Janice H. Barker on May 20,1958. He owned Melvin Barker Roofing in Austin, Texas until he retired. He was ordained as a deacon on June 1,1969 and actively served in the church. He was an accomplished amateur and professional boxer from 1955 to 1963 with over 70 fights, including Texas Welterweight Champion and Golden Gloves Champion.

Melvin is survived by his sons Mel (Dawn) Barker and Gary (Vicki) Barker; grandchildren Jeb (Jennifer) Cash, Stephanie (Avi) Ramos, Kimberly (JT) McCoy, David (Lauren) Barker, and Caitlyn Barker; 9 beautiful great-grandchildren Kendall, Collin, Avery, Emmersen, Maverick, Cynthia, Christopher, Jay, and Logan; 2 brothers Harry (Wilma) Barker and Dwight Barker; add to that brother-in-law Ralph (Barbara) Stark and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his wife (Janice) and sister (Deanie Holland), and other loved family members.

Melvin loved Janice so much and had so many great times with her through their 59 years of marriage. He worked hard and he taught his sons and others this same work ethic. He was a Christian example for many and lived by the highest standards of honesty and integrity. His smile and joy for living was infectious and encouraged family and friends. Melvin had one of the most successful roofing companies in Austin, Texas and his clients loved him. Melvin had such a big heart; he loved God, his wife, family, and friends. He also grew one of the best gardens each year and shared the fruits of his labor with many, including the best onions and tomatoes and okra that Janice would fry up as soon as it was picked.

Many have shared wonderful memories of times together with Melvin, including family gatherings at his house during the holidays and special occasions, fellowship and service with other members of his church over the years, playing dominos and hearing it from Janice if he did not play the hand correctly, and enjoying meals together after retirement with his high school friends and old boxing buddies. He blessed so many during his life.

The funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Wednesday, February 9, 2022 in the Walden Room of Cook-Walden/Capital Parks Funeral Home in Pflugerville. Visitation will be prior to the service from 12:30 p.m. until 2:00 p.m. Interment will follow at Cook-Walden/Memorial Hill Cemetery.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.cookwaldencapitalparks.com for the Barker family.