Emily Rose Barker

Emily Rose Barker, 38 of Glenwood Springs, Colorado lost her life while battling a wildland fire along the Utah-Colorado border on Saturday, June 27, 2026. A brave and dedicated firefighter for 17 years, she was a Lead Wildland Firefighter with the U.S. Forest Service Rifle Helitack Crew on the White River National Forest.

Originally from Clinton Township, Michigan, she was born on August 12, 1987. Emily attended the Grosse Pointe Academy and Regina High School. In 2009, she received degrees from Northern Michigan University and Gogebic for Ski Area Management. While in college, she started as a volunteer firefighter with Ironwood Township Fire Department and knew she found her calling.

After graduating, she moved to Colorado for snow making, spending winters in Vail and summers doing prescribed burns and fighting wildfires across the US. Emily excelled in both fields – a strong leader and a role model to young women looking to pursue male-dominated fields. Among her many accomplishments, she was an Engine Captain during her time with the Bureau of Land Management in Idaho (2018-2023). She spent many winters working as a Lead Snowmaker and was the first woman to earn the title “Snowmaker of the Year” in Colorado (2015).

Family, friends and colleagues remember her as a lovable prankster, whose vibrant energy lit up the room. She had an infectious positive attitude and was known for her selflessness, bravery, and unwavering reliability. She was an incredible mentor, a loyal friend, and, without question, the world's best aunt. Emily’s many hobbies and interests matched her dynamic personality. She was a beloved teammate on her ice hockey team - the Down Valley Divas - and was also an avid snowboarder. She enjoyed dirt biking, snowmobiling, hiking and all kinds of travel. She loved animals, camping under the stars and National Parks. Above all, she was always there for her loved ones when they needed her.

Emily is survived by her brother Nick (Kim), sister Lisa (Scott), nieces and nephew (Lilia, Phoebe and Remi), and mother Rosemary (David).

A public Memorial Visitation will be held on Tuesday, July 14, 2026, from 10 a.m. – 12 p.m., followed by a public Memorial Service with full honors rendered by the United States Forest Service at 12 p.m. Both visitation and service will be held at Bethesda Christian Church, 14000 Metro Parkway (16 Mile Road), Sterling Heights, Michigan 48312.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the D.S. Temrowski & Sons Funeral Home, in Warren.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to Wildland Firefighter Foundation in remembrance of Emily Barker.

Please share memories of Emily at her guestbook below.