Caroline Barker

Caroline Spidel Barker, 87, passed away peacefully on July 2, 2017 at her home in Carmel, surrounded by her loved ones. She was born April 4, 1930, in Sheridan, Indiana, to Joel C. and Mildred E. Spidel, who predecease her.

Caroline graduated from Sheridan High School, in 1948. In 1952, she married her high school sweetheart, Donald Keith Barker, who survives her. They would have celebrated their 65th anniversary on July 6, 2017.

She is also survived by her three children: Vicki Gastineau (Gary), Scott Barker (Amy), and Jennifer McNair (Jim); her nine grandchildren: Erika Meredith (David Wang), Travis McNair, Joel Barker (Nancy), Michael Gastineau, Nick Barker (Alicia), Samantha Barker, Evan McNair, Gabrielle McNair, and Collin McNair; and her five great-grandchildren: Addison and Oakley Wang, and Norah, Noel, and Ezekiel Barker. Caroline is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.

After working at Delco Remy for five years, Caroline left to raise her family and later cared for her mother. She and Don lived most of their lives near Sheridan before moving to Carmel in 1985. Caroline volunteered for the Red Cross at Riverview Hospital for 25 years, where she sat as Chairman of the Heartbeat Ball, the Fall Style Show and Luncheon, and served on the Auxiliary Board.

Caroline's greatest joy was her family and grandchildren. For many years, her home was a daily gathering place for her loved ones. Every Sunday, Caroline and Don made lunch for their entire family. Eager to spread her love to those around her, she often made pies, yeast rolls, chicken and noodles, wacky cake with caramel icing or banana bread for family gatherings. She also made pies for the Carmel Fire Station where her grandson was on duty. Caroline also loved to spend time shopping and completing crossword puzzles. Alongside her parents, Caroline began a lifelong and cherished family tradition of over 70 years, by taking the entire family to Siesta Key, Florida, at Thanksgiving.

She was a member of East 91st Street Christian Church, and of Sheridan Christian Church for many prior years. Visitation will be Wednesday, July 5, 2017, from 4 p.m. until 8 p.m. and Thursday, July 6, 2017, from 9 a.m. until the time of the service at 10 a.m. at Flanner & Buchanan, 325 E. Carmel Drive. Burial to follow at Crown View Cemetery, Sheridan.

Memorial Contributions can be made to Sheridan First Christian Church, 107 W 3rd St Sheridan, IN 46069.