Philip Thomas Barker

Philip T. Barker, age 80, of Merrill, passed away on Sunday, February 4, 2018, at his home of natural causes. Philip was born August 2, 1937, in Merrill, son of the late William and Elsie (Thomas) Barker, Sr. He married Shirley A. Rost on May 21, 1976 in Milwaukee. She survives. Philip had been employed with the former General Telephone Company for 30 years. He enjoyed the Packers, Brewers, fishing, and spending time with his grandchildren. Philip was a former Little League coach. He was a member of the Merrill Silver M Club and recently received his ‘Gold M’. Philip honorably served in the U.S. Navy from 1957 until 1961, and served aboard the USS Lexington. Philip is survived by his wife, Shirley Barker, Merrill; four sons, Christopher Barker, New Lisbon, Harold Barker, Pardeeville, Shawn (Barb) Barker, Portage, and Thomas (Meghan) Barker, Merrill; nine grandchildren, Kristina, Buddy, Kristan, Katie, Dalton, Kenzie, Shawn, Olivia, and Madee; four great grandchildren, Easton, Ethan, Nevaeh, and Ayreanna; one sister, Irene Putman, Baraboo; and one brother, Patrick Barker, Portage. Besides his parents, Philip is preceded in death by one brother, William Barker, Jr. The funeral service will begin at 11:00 AM Friday, February 9, 2018, at the Taylor-Stine Funeral Home, Merrill. The Rev. David Szeto will officiate. Burial will follow in the Veteran Memorial of St. Francis Cemetery, Merrill, with graveside military rites conducted by the Merrill V.F.W. Post 1638 Honor Guard. Visitation will begin at 9:00 AM Friday at the funeral home. Online condolences may be made at www.taylorstinefuneralhome.com.