Joan G. Barker, 95, died Friday, January 6, 2023, while under Hospice care in Brooksville, FL. Joan was born on April 4, 1927, at her parents' home on Harrison Street in Barrington, IL. She was the only child of Elden George Gieske and Adelheid Steiner Gieske. Joan attended Barrington Grade School and High School and earned a bachelor's degree in Primary Education from the University of Northwestern. She was a member of the Alpha Delta Pi sorority and while at Northwestern she met classmate Kenneth Barker, whom she later married on December 29, 1950. Joan began her teaching career in Des Plaines, IL and continued at Randall Grade School in Bassett, WI shortly after she and Kenneth moved from Chicago to a farm east of Genoa City, WI. It was on this farm where Joan and Kenneth raised 3 children. The family were long-time members of the First Congregational Church, UCC, in Genoa City. After retiring from teaching, she and Kenneth moved to Brooksville, FL. Based out of their retirement community, High Point, Joan and Kenneth traveled to many US and international locations. At High Point, Joan was part of the quilter's club, the chorus club, the "Pantry Project", and a first responder for the local fire department. Joan was also known for her large holiday dinners she and friends provided for dozens of High Point neighbors and friends.

A graveside celebration is being planned at Joan's family plot at Evergreen Cemetery in Barrington, IL, this summer.

Preceded in death by husband of 60 years, Kenneth K. Barker and succeeded by three children: daughter Ann Lukin (Mike), son Kenneth K. Barker, Jr. (Carol), and son Glenn G. Barker (Roxann).

Further survived by 5 grandchildren, Heidi Ernst (Delton), Bridget Swenson (Ted), Olivia Lefo (Joseph), Madeline Barker, Dianna Barker; and 4 great-grandchildren, Logan Ernst, Owen Ernst, Theodore Swenson, and Olive Swenson.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Neighbors Helping Neighbors, c/o High Point Community Office, 8008 Baltic Street, Brooksville, FL 34613.

Haase-Lockwood & Associates Funeral Home and Crematory of Genoa City is honored to assist the Barker family.