John Thomas Barger

John Thomas Barger had a long and wonderful life. He passed away on October 12, 2025, at the age of 94. Leaving before him was his second wife, Betty (Schneider) Barger, and later, his girlfriend, Carlene McMonagle. He is survived by long-time friend Barbara Figi. His three children were born while he was married to Joan Harris Barger Johnson: Linda Barger Hansen, Debra (Eric) Skogg and Jeffery (Jane) Barger. He was the grandfather of Kevin (Brittany) Skogg, Callie Hansen, Lisa (Brian) Klesius, Amy Barger, the late Jessica Hansen, Matthew Barger (Mara Jade Thomas), Anna (Will) Soderberg, and Taylor Hansen (Evan Brown). He was the step-grandfather of Kurt (Yvonne) Sachen. He had six great-grandchildren: Jaxon, Lilliana, Sonja, Kaiden, Chloe, and Wyatt.

After graduating from high school in his home state of Pennsylvania, John enlisted in the Navy. He saw action in the Korean War, and again just before the Vietnam War when he and others in his crew helped the French Foreign Legion evacuate from Vietnam prior to the start of the war. He credited the Navy with teaching him discipline and focus. He learned electronics in the Navy and was a proud graduate of Marquette University with a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering. During his 38 years with General Motors, he worked on the internal navigation systems for the Titan rocket, Project Gemini and Project Apollo, attending many launches.

John loved the outdoors. He was an avid hunter and fisherman throughout his life. He and his older brothers would often go out hunting or fishing after school and bring home something for dinner. He loved skiing in the winter and swimming and boating in the summer. He was a fan of the Green Bay Packers, and enjoyed spaghetti and meatballs for dinner. He will be missed dearly.