February 27, 2026 ~ 100 years old
William David Barker, age 100, passed away on February 27, 2026 in Lees Summit, Missouri.
Dave was born in Pawnee City, Nebraska, to Claude and Gertrude Barker.
Dave and his sister Betty, spent their childhood in Pawnee City and went to Pawnee City schools. He graduated from Pawnee City high school in 1943. After high school Dave and a friend hitch hiked out to Washington State to work on the Ross Hydroelectric Dam. During these years he learned many things that peaked his interest in engineering. He came back to Nebraska and went to the University of Nebraska. He graduated with a degree in mechanical and civil engineering. After he graduated from UNL in 1950, he married Leola Hodtwalker, moved to Independence, Mo. and had three children.
As a Professional Engineer, Dave worked all of his life in the Kansas City area as a civil and mechanical engineer. During his lifetime he worked for Butler Mfg, Gustin Bacon, Certainteed, and Bendix. He considered his patent for a metal roof fastener (MR24) one of his highest achievements. This fastener is still used throughout the steel industry 50 years later.
After he retired he moved to John Knox Village in Lees Summit, Mo. He enjoyed a wonderful social life and found his second life partner Mickey Danberger. All his life Dave continued to enjoy playing golf, dancing, traveling and socializing with friends.
He is survived by his good friend and partner Mickey Danberger, daughter Vicki Sorensen, Lincoln, Ne: sons Scott (Carol) Barker, Lees Summit, Mo: and Douglas (Mary) Barker, Seward, NE: 6 grandchildren and 11 greatgrandchildren.
Dave is preceded in death by his parents Claude and Gertrude Barker, his wife Leola, and his sister Betty Roberts. He will be deeply missed by family and friends.
ServiceApril 18th at 1 am held at, Trinity Lutheran Church, Walton, Nebraska.