ASHLAND -Dale Barker, age 81, of Ashland, passed away after a long, hard fought battle on Friday, November 22, 2019. He was born January 18, 1938 in Washburn, a son of the late "Sandy" Alexander and Lulu Fe (Plissey) Barker.

Dale lived each day with an unmatched determination to live life on his terms.  He was a great and strong man who was determined, stubborn, creative and fiercely independent. He was a devoted husband and good father that, through his strong values, failures, shear will and determination, he showed us what it truly means to be a Family.

He served in the US Army as an Army Reservist and was a long-time member of the Ashland Rotary Club, receiving the Paul Harris Fellowship Award.  He devoted 42 years to Maine Public Service Co, before retiring in 1999.  Dale had a great passion for the outdoors. Hunting, fishing, snowmobiling, boating and, most of all, he loved spending time with family and friends at his camp on Squa Pan Lake.

Besides his parents, Dale was predeceased by his childhood sweetheart and loving wife of 58 years, Lottie (Castonguay) Barker, four brothers, Everett, Alex, Ollie, and Thomas, four sisters, Georgie, Bertha, Nettie and Betty, and one grandson, Benjamin Barker.

He is survived by his son Stephen and wife Debbie, daughter Rita Tilley and husband Jeffrey, daughter Beverly Erickson and partner Ricky Frost, son David and wife Mona, son Roger and wife Michelle, a very special niece Rhonda Lucas and husband David, several grandchildren and great-grandchildren.  Also surviving is his brother Gary Barker and sister Opal Hokanson.

Dale's family extends a special thank you to all the staff of Northern Light Home Care and Hospice, Aroostook House of Comfort, and Presque Isle Rehab and Nursing Center, for their loving care and support during his final days.

Rest in Peace Dad and give Mom a loving hug from all of us.

In honor of Dale's wishes, private services will held at a later date with his immediate family. If desired, contributions may be made in Dale's memory to: Aroostook House of Comfort, 18 Green Hill Dr./P.O. Box 867, Presque Isle, ME 04769. Arrangements were a service of Lajoie Funeral Home, 114 Exchange St./PO Box 39, Ashland, ME 04732.