Dale Jeffrey Barker

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Dale Barker on February 23, 2026, at the age of 81. Dale was the beloved son of Elmer Barker and Dorothy Schuyler of Franklin, Ohio. Dale is survived by his devoted wife, Lexie; his cherished children, Heather and Anthony (Janet); his two grandchildren, Luke and Camila; and his brother, Dave.

Dale was a loving father, a loyal friend, a proud veteran, and a remarkable human being. Born in 1944, he spent his formative years on a family farm in southwestern Ohio. Known for his infectious humor and warm spirit, Dale possessed a multitude of talents that endeared him to all who knew him. As an athlete, he excelled in defensive basketball during his youth in Franklin, and he took pleasure in running, golfing and tennis. His adventurous nature led him to become an exceptional skier, capable of conquering the most challenging mountain terrains.

Dale graduated from Franklin High School before continuing his education at The Ohio State University in Columbus. While there, he joined the Phi Delta Theta fraternity, forming lasting friendships that would shape his life.

In 1967, Dale enlisted in the United States Army and was honorably discharged in 1969. His service included a year in Vietnam as a member of the Army's heavy artillery unit. There, he formed a close bond with fellow veteran Joe Wiggs, with whom he shared a unique fitness regimen involving makeshift weights crafted from cement-filled buckets.

During a one-week R&R leave from Vietnam, Dale serendipitously met Lexie in a coffee shop in Sydney, Australia, a fortuitous encounter that would blossom into a loving marriage lasting 56 years. Following Dale’s discharge, Lexie moved to the United States and the couple wed in the Spring of 1970. They welcomed their two children, Heather in 1975 and Anthony in 1977.

Dale spent the majority of his professional career in sales at Xerox and StorageTek. In retirement, he dedicated his time as a valued volunteer at the OSU James Cancer Hospital, giving back to the community that he cherished, especially as a melanoma survivor.

As a father and husband, Dale was steadfastly devoted to his family. He was surprisingly adept with his hands, often assisting Anthony with real estate endeavors and imparting valuable skills. His commitment extended to coaching soccer and aiding his son's college painting business. Additionally, Dale was a talented poet with exceptional writing skills that he generously offered in support of his children’s academic pursuits.

Dale viewed life through a lens of positivity, characterized with integrity and honor. His hobbies included listening to music, traveling, gardening, reading, and spending quality time with loved ones.

In 2015, Dale was diagnosed with early onset Alzheimer's disease, a challenge he navigated with grace for over eleven years. While his departure leaves a significant void in the hearts of friends and family, we take solace in the full life he lived and the legacy of love and kindness he leaves behind.