Dennis Barker

Hastings resident, Dennis "Denny" W. Barker, 69, died Monday, July 9, 2012 with his beloved dog, Jody by his side in Hastings, Nebraska.

Services will be Friday, July 13, 2012; 10:30 A.M. at Butler Volland Chapel, Hastings with Pastor Tony Dawson officiating. Burial with military rites by Hastings Veterans Organizations will be in Parkview Cemetery, Hastings. Visitation will be Thursday, July 12, 2012; 9:00 A.M. - 9:00 P.M. with family present from 4:00 P.M. - 6:00 P.M., and Friday, July 13, 2012; 9:00 A.M. - 10:30 A.M. at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to Elks Lodge #159.

Denny was born June 17, 1943 in Hastings, Nebraska to Emery L. & Margaret Louise (Hood) Barker. He graduated from Hastings Senior High, Kearney State Collage with a bachelor's degree, and Camp Ashland Military Academy. On May 13, 1968 Denny entered the U.S. Army and was honorably discharged on July 25, 1969. He married Connie Coleman on June 6, 1970; they later divorced. Denny owned and operated the Flamingo Lounge in Grand Island, Nebraska, and was a salesman for Jerry Spady. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, golfing, and raising Brittany Spaniels. He was an avid University of Nebraska football fan. Denny played in the American Legion Little League World Series. He participated in track and won many medals, once beating Gayle Sayers. He was a member of the First United Methodist Church, past Exalted Ruler Elks Lodge #159, Eagles, American Legion, and Hastings American Legion Baseball Hall of Fame.

Dennis was preceded in death by his parents.

Survivors include:
Daughters & Spouse: Brenda Barker - Douglas, WY
Heather & Scott Furstenau - Grand Island, NE
Grandchildren : Jessica Barker
Casey Furstenau
Megan Furstenau
Rebecca Barker
Great-Grandchildren: Madison Barker
Brady Barker