Leonard A. Barker, 91, of Converse, passed away peacefully at 2:30 pm on Friday, November 21, 2025, at Ascension St. Vincent Hospital in Indianapolis. Born May 19, 1934, in Swayzee, Indiana, Leonard was the son of Fred and Martha (Lake) Barker. On August 15, 1987, he married Sharon Lynne Broadstreet, who survives.
Leonard graduated from Converse High School and attended Purdue University. He worked for many years as a clerk and mechanic with the Pennsylvania Railroad and later at Ray’s Auto Parts before retiring. He also enjoyed working with Lynn’s Auto Body, where he spent time rebuilding automobiles.
A devout Christian and longtime member of Sweetser Wesleyan Church, Leonard lived a life filled with simple joys. He loved working jigsaw puzzles, caring for his yard, and building model cars, planes, and trains. He especially cherished fishing trips with his grandsons, time with family, and fish fries--always sampling one fish from every basket he fried.
Leonard is survived by his best friend and beloved wife, Sharon Lynne Barker of Converse, who was always by his side; children, Brian Ferrand of Mills River, NC; Michelle (Kurt) Heise of Laura, OH; Teresa (Mike) Jordan of Chrisman, IL; Cindy (Curt) Hudson of Crawfordsville, IN; Kim (Susan) Barker of Converse, IN; and Tamara (Christopher) Harnage of Babson Park, FL; along with many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and friends.
His love of the Lord gives his survivors great peace during this time.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Fred R. and Martha Marie Barker, and his sister, Rhea (Tom) Dubois.
Visitation will be held from 11:00 am to 2:00 pm on Friday, November 28, 2025, at Needham-Storey-Wampner Funeral & Cremation Service, North Chapel, 1341 N. Baldwin Ave., Marion, IN. A graveside service will immediately follow at Thrailkill Cemetery with Pastor Andrew Kinney officiating.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to Sweetser Wesleyan Church, 200 W. Delphi Pike, Sweetser, IN 46987.
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