Notice:

From: Jim Stewart (Vietnam Dog Handler Association - Member #13)

Debbie Barker called to inform me that Larry Barker died March 18, 2017 (yesterday).  I have attached a photo of Larry from one of our VDHA - Michigan parade participations.

Larry was a dog handler with the 37th SPS at Phu Cat during the Vietnam War.  He continued his dog handling in civilian life with search and rescue dogs.



Obituary:

BARKER Larry Allen 'Crickett'May 12, 1947 - March 18, 2017.
"Our furry friends never leave us; they just stay on our shoulders to guard and protect us.  And when too many of them are gone and they weigh our shoulders down, it is time for us to go be with them."
(Jim Tsitanidis, Spirit Ridge K9 Training & Rescue)

Larry was a variety of things to many people, but most will remember him as "the dog man" due to his long-time involvement with dogs.  It began in the U.S. Air Force as a sentry dog handler in Vietnam, continued through being a 4-H Dog Care & Training leader for 25 years, and segued to being involved with canine search and rescue, as well as training others and becoming a certifying official for "L.E.T.S." (Law Enforcement Training Specialists, Inc., a national canine certification organization).

Along the way, he also raised several litters of Leader Dog puppies, taught puppy classes as a member of the Southern Michigan Obedience Training Club, and was a founding member of the Tri- State K-9 Search & Rescue Team.  Larry also joined the Vietnam Dog Handler Association (VDHA) in 1996.

He was a mentor to many, considered to be our own "dog whisperer", and was always willing to lend a helping hand or offer advice.

Larry was born in Pontiac, Michigan, and lived in Waterford at the time of his passing.  He worked for Pontiac Motors for over 30 years, and spent his retirement time with his beloved dogs, doing search work, attending and teaching at canine seminars, working on cars, and reflecting back on his many years of being involved with (and at one time racing) motorcycles.

He was also proud to be a life member of the Avengers Motorcycle Club. 

The family wishes to thank those who were there when needed, often when we didn't realize we needed help, as well as the staff of The Medical Team/Hospice Division.

Larry has finally crossed the Rainbow Bridge to join the 4-footed family members that were patiently waiting.

He leaves behind his wife, Deborah; sister Patricia; a nephew and nieces; and their children; as well as the last "good shepherds to watch over him".

Arrangements are being made by the Coats Funeral Home on Sashabaw Rd. in Waterford, MI.
See:  http://www.coatsfuneralhome.com/locations/waterford.aspx

Visitation:

Family will receive friends Wednesday, March 29, 2017 from 3:00-5:00 and 7:00-9:00 PM at our SASHABAW LOCATION.
Funeral Service:

Graveside service:
Thursday, March 30, 2017 at 2:00 PM at Great Lakes National Cemetery, Holly.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Leader Dogs for the Blind or Tri-State K-9 Search & Rescue, 4232 Clintonville Road, Waterford, MI 48329.