William "Bill" Allen Barker

William (Bill) Allen Barker peacefully passed away at his home in Kalispell, Montana on Monday, April 8, 2024, surrounded by his loving family.

Bill's journey began in Billings, MT, where he cultivated his passion for baseball, fishing, and backpacking. His family, the cornerstone of his life, provided unwavering support throughout his journey. Although his father passed away when Bill was young, Elbert’s influence shaped Bill into the man he would become. Anchored by his mother Ann, and his siblings Joan, Susie, Gary, and Tom, Bill found strength and love in the embrace of his familial roots.

 A graduate in history and economics from the University of Montana, Bill cherished his fraternity brotherhood at Sigma Chi. Beneath his sharp-witted exterior lay depths of wisdom and complexity, akin to the serene depths of his favorite fishing spots on Rock Creek.

 Fate led Bill to his beloved wife, Anne, during their time working at the Uptown Diner in Missoula. Their bond blossomed into a partnership spanning over three decades, marked by shared adventures and cherished memories. They managed Holland Lake Lodge in Condon MT and were married against this backdrop of the most beautiful place on earth. They had shared their first date together here as well. Bill and Anne had spent their years together living out Bill’s favorite quote “Life is a journey, not a destination”.

 Bill's proudest role was that of a father to his three cherished children, Elizabeth, Ben, and Alex. An engaged and creative dad, he delighted in crafting games that brought joy to all. Bill taught his children to be critical thinkers, role-models of being bold and not afraid to take a risk.  A beacon of wisdom, Bill instilled in his children these virtues, echoing Robert Kennedy's immortal words: "Some men see things as they are and ask why? I dream things that never were and ask why not?"

 Bill's professional legacy was defined not by his occupations, but by his unwavering commitment to excellence. From managing hotels and restaurants across Montana, Oregon, and Wisconsin, to creating the beloved McFarland House Café, Bill's impact resonated deeply within each community he touched.

 In his final chapter, Bill and Anne returned to the embrace of Montana's natural beauty, relishing moments of camping and fishing in Glacier National Park and the Whitefish Range. Embraced by the proximity of family, Bill found solace and richness beyond measure in their company.

 William Allen Barker leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and profound wisdom—a testament to a life lived with purpose, integrity, and an unwavering devotion to family. Though he has departed this world, his spirit will forever illuminate the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know him.

 He is survived by his wife Anne, their three children Elizabeth (husband Andrew), Benjamin, and Alexander, sisters Joan and Susie (husband Bob), brother Tom (wife Sara), and many nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his father Elbert, stepfather Ray, mother Ann, and brother Gary. 

A Celebration of Life service will be held at 4:00pm, on Friday May 3, 2024, at the Elks Lodge in Missoula, Montana, at 112 N. Pattee Street. Buffalo Hill Funeral Home caring for the family. To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of William "Bill" Allen Barker, please visit our flower store.