Harlan Barker

Harlan Barker, 60, of Des Moines, passed away August 12th, 2021 at home surrounded by family after a long battle with cancer. Harlan Gary Barker was born as Harlan Bruce Banwell on May 7, 1961 in Clarion, IA to Bruce Banwell & Donna Joann Hopkey. The majority of his childhood was spent growing up in and around Hampton, IA. From 1978-1987 Harlan was enlisted in the US Army as an MP – Explosive Protector Dog Handler, where he spent time in Panama, Germany, Texas and California. After his discharge from the Army, Harlan discovered a love for truck driving. He started out delivering seed for local farmers before moving into over-the-road trucking. In October of 2011, Harlan purchased the semi he’d been driving from his employer, and started his own trucking business – HB Trucking. Harlan retired in December 2020 due to health issues, and closed his business in April 2021. Harlan was a man of strong faith, never knew a stranger, and was loved by all who knew him. Harlan treated everyone equally, and couldn’t have been a better husband, father, bonus dad, grandfather, brother, uncle, or friend to his family and those close to him. Harlan loved the Chicago Bears & Cubs, Iowa Hawkeyes, and was at peace anytime he had a rod & reel in his hands. Harlan was also active with his church, and participated in weekly small group gatherings. Harlan always had a bible and his 2 pups Max & Ollie by his side. Harlan married Kathryn O’Leary on September 19, 2015 in Des Moines, IA. Together with this blended marriage they have 9 children, 14 grandchildren, and 1 great-grandchild. Harlan is survived by his wife Kathy, children Summer (Aaron) Poitra of Alton, IL, Vincent Banwell of Caldwell, ID, and Katharine (Adam) Peters of Waukon, IA, stepchildren Heath Barker of Chapin, IA, Samantha McIntire of Hollis, ME, Jeromy (Tabitha) Metier of Knoxville, IA, Jessica (Todd) Gladson and Kristin Metier of Oskaloosa, IA, Katelyn Evans of Carlisle, IA, his 2 puppies Max & Ollie, sister Lannette (Dale) Morisset, stepsisters Jacqui Minor of Garden City, KS, Rhonda Weilert of Bettendorf, IA, Sheryl Hively of Goldfield, IA, Teresa Nolan of Garden City, KS, and many family & friends. Harlan was preceded in death by his parents Bruce & Sharon Banwell, and Jo & Jerry Eckman. former spouse Debra Barker, 1 foster sister Rose, 1 stepbrother Donny. Visitation will be Tuesday, August 17, 2021 at Noon until time of service at 1pm at Caldwell Parrish Funeral Home, 8201 Hickman Rd, Urbandale, IA 50322. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to: Forever Home Dog Rescue 8083 Buchanan Tr. Norwalk, IA 50211