Donald “Don” George Barber

Donald “Don” George Barber, 97, a resident of Presque Isle, died on March 30, 2024 at his home surrounded by his family. He was born October 19, 1926, in Amherst, to parents Ora and Bessie Barber.

Don served as an Army Sergeant during WWII — Pacific Theater Signal Corp, and as a Great Lakes Merchant Marine. He worked as a Station Agent for the Railroad, and he owned and operated The Countryside Inn Bar in Stoughton.

Don was an avid outdoors enthusiast, especially when he got the opportunity to share the outdoors with his family. He was never without a dog by his side. Don enjoyed the opportunity to take long family camping road trips seeing many sites and experiences across the United States. Even at 97, Don always said his family kept him young or at least kept him on his toes. He was always proud to have a close-knit family and to be an active part of their lives. Don also had the opportunity of a lifetime partaking in both the Never Forgotten Honor Flight and a Dream Flights experience, enjoying one last plane ride in a vintage WWII era biplane at the age of 95.

Don was preceded in death by his parents; siblings: Harold Barber, Anita Olson, and Dorothy Hufford. He is survived by his loving wife: Mildred Barber; children: Nancy Park, Diane (Larry) Barber, Julie Mellum, Liz (Matt) Reuss, Jeff (Chloe) Barber, Joe Barber; grandchildren: Cory, Kiley, Melissa McCown, Sophia, Donnie Barber, Zachary Reuss; great grandchild: Cody McCown; Special sister-in-law: Dorita Dolezal; and countless other family members and all the people that got to know him over the years. Don had the gift of gab, and a captivating smirk that enthralled everyone that had the opportunity to spend time with him.

A private celebration of life will be held for the family this summer with inurnment at Northwoods National Cemetery in Harshaw.

Online condolences may be shared at www.nimsgernfuneral.com. Nimsgern Funeral & Cremation Services is serving the family.