John Barber, 73, of Gilman passed away on Thursday, August 14, 2025 at Riverside Hospital in Kankakee. He was born on April 19, 1952 in Onarga, a son of Lenmore and Emma “Ferne” (Zirkle) Barber and they preceded him in death along with his step-father, Charles Watson.
John is survived by his children, David Barber of Onarga, Melissa (Corey) Hall of Gilman, Becky (Tim) Conn of Thawville; step-daughter, Jennifer Miller of Donovan; sisters, Cheryl (Dave) Kienast of Danville and Darla (Jeff) Sparenberg of Gilman; seven grandchildren, Gatlin, Anslei, Owen, Avery, Emmitt, Mason, and Makenna; and several nieces and nephews.
John was a proud veteran of the United States Navy and a member of the Onarga American Legion. He enjoyed fishing, motorcycle riding, and cooking. Above all, he loved time spent with his family and friends.
A memorial visitation will be on Tuesday, August 19, 2025 from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at the Knapp Funeral Home in Onarga. Military rites will be held at 6:30 p.m. at the Onarga Cemetery by the Onarga American Legion Post 551.
Memorials may be given to the donor’s choice.
