Cliston Paul Barker, 81, known to many as “Sparkie,” passed away on March 18, 2026, at Harry S. Truman VA Hospital in Columbia, Missouri.

Cliston is survived by his loving wife of 61 years, Anita (Mathes) Barker; his brothers, Rick Barker and Jack Barker; his daughter, Tami Western (Bryan); and his cherished grandchildren, Sidney Jeffries, Landon Doosing, and Emma High. He is also survived by his bonus grandchildren, Jourdan (Darin) Swisher and Danyelle (Connor) Chinn. Great grandchildren Abel, Tinlee, and Laramie. He is also survived by his sister-in-law Barbara Miller and several nieces and nephews who will miss him dearly.

He was preceded in death by his son, Cliston Paul Barker, Jr.; his parents Paul and Roselen; his sister, Karla Walker; and his mother-in-law and father-in-law, Roy and Allene Mathes; sisters-in-law, Roylene, Linda, Brenda.

Cliston enlisted in the United States military at a young age, proudly serving three tours in Vietnam as a mechanic working on USS Green Fish SS351, which was station out of Pearl Harbor. After completing his service, he returned home and built a life defined by hard work and dedication. He worked for over 15 years as a mechanic for UPS, a few years on Missouri Bridge Crew, and later spent time as a farmhand for a couple local farmers.

In later years, Cliston and Anita found great joy in attending the grandchildren’s sporting events, rarely missing a game. Whether cheering from the stands or offering encouragement, they were always present and proud.

Cliston was known for his strong work ethic, his willingness to help others, and his ability to fix just about anything. If he didn’t have a wrench in his hand, he likely had a fishing pole nearby. He also loved to cook and took pride in sharing meals with those he cared about. He spent many hours tending to his large garden, finding peace and satisfaction in the work and in providing for his family. To many, he was the first phone call when something needed fixing, as he always seemed to have a solution ready.

He was always up for whatever idea came his way—even if it was a little ornery or maybe just a bit dangerous—bringing his adventurous spirit and sense of humor along for the ride.

He will be remembered for his kindness, his humor, and the steady presence he brought to the lives of those around him. His legacy lives on through the family he loved and supported so deeply.

He will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

Public visitation will be held at 9:00 a.m. on Monday, March 23, 2026, followed by funeral services at 11:00 a.m. in the chapel of Travis-Noe Funeral Home in Kirksville. Interment with military honors will take place at 1:00 p.m. at the Missouri Veterans Cemetery in Jacksonville, Missouri.

Memorial donations in memory of Cliston may be made to East Center Cemetery and may be left at or mailed to Travis-Noe Funeral Home, P.O. Box 306, Kirksville, MO 63501.