Dean Barber

Dean M. Barber, 85, of Wyaconda, passed away at 5:57 pm on Wednesday, April 5, 2023, at his home, surrounded by his loving family.

He was born October 10, 1937, at his family home in Wyaconda the son of the late John Samuel Barber and Pauline (McReynolds) Barber. Dean graduated from Wyaconda C-1 High School in 1955. He married Marjorie (Davidson) Barber on October 3, 1965, and she preceded him in death on May 24, 2021.

Dean was a very talented man and accomplished many things throughout his life. At age 21, Dean worked as a secretary for Missouri State Representative George Boley. In 1965, Dean purchased A. Simon Saddlery, a local leather shop in Memphis Missouri. After a few years, Dean closed the shop in Memphis but later reopened in Wyaconda as The Tack Shop, which continues to this day. To support his growing family, Dean obtained his CDL and spent the majority of his career driving for Ruan Transport. When he wasn't driving, Dean spent his time training and showing Champion Pleasure and Reining horses. Dean enjoyed singing and playing the guitar and once had the privilege of playing at the Grand Ole Opry. Although he had many different talents, Dean is best known for his leather craftsmanship. He has made everything from holsters and belts to horse tack and gun slings for many individuals, including local farmers to F.B.I. and C.I.A. agents. Dean even had the honor of crafting a set of reins for U.S. President Ronald Reagan.

He is survived by one son; Aaron (Amie Howard) Barber of Wyaconda, two daughters, Brenda Barber of Wyaconda and Tracy (Tim) Murphy of Luray, Nine grandchildren; Adam Tucker of Wyaconda, Michelle Tucker of Wyaconda, Heather Tucker of Wyaconda, T.S GT Tony (Karissa) Murphy of Mountain Home, ID, Michaela (Tobias) Hyde of Luray, Aaron Smith of Quincy, Veronica Barber of Kahoka, Tristan Newberry of Wyaconda and Angel Barber of Wyaconda, as well as several great grandchildren, nieces and nephews. Besides his parents and wife, Dean was preceded in death by his wife Marjorie Barber, a brother Mack Barber, a sister Donna Barber and one grandson Ryan Murphy.

Funeral Services honoring Dean’s life will be conducted at 11:00 am on Friday, April 14, 2023, at the Wyaconda Christian Church. Pastor James Leezer will officiate.

Interment will follow in the Wyaconda Cemetery.

Visitation will be held Thursday, April 13, 2023, from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm at the Wilson & Triplett Funeral Home in Kahoka.

 Memorial contributions in memory of Dean are suggested to Hospice of Northeast Missouri.

You are invited to share your memories of Dean and leave a condolence at www.wilsontriplett.com