Obituary of Derek Barker

Derek James Jonathon Barker of Washougal, WA returned to his Lord on Friday, March 19, 2010 in Kalama, WA. He was 23 years old. He was born in Portland, Oregon on April 8, 1986, and graduated in 2004 from Washougal High School, where he was an astute student and athlete. Out of a desire to help those in need, he aspired to enter Clark College's Pharmacy Tech Program. Derek was blessed with the gift of giving of himself freely to others, and his affectionate nature earned him many friends and admirers in his community. He was a natural leader, quick to a smile and a laugh, and believed in the power and love of family. Above all else, he was deeply loved by his large family. To our beloved son, grandson, brother, nephew, cousin, uncle, and friend your memory burns bright in our hearts, as vivid as the blue of your eyes. Derek is survived by his loving parents: James and Janette Barker of Washougal, WA, Canda and Thomas Parker of Mesa, Arizona, brother Tyler Helvie of Chico, CA; and sister Tiffany Palmer of Kelso, WA grandparents: James and Helen Barker of Kalama, WA, and Jack and Beverly Helvie of Jacksonville, OR, and Elbie and Marcia Mendenhall of Brush Prairie, WA; uncles Kevin (Kim) Barker of Kelso, WA; and Skot (Jessica) Barker of Vancouver, WA; aunts Joni (Rusty) Osborn of Brush Prairie, WA; and Jackie (Brian) Landberg of California; as well as numerous cousins, and friends. A Celebration of Derek's life will be held on Saturday, March 27th at 11:00 am at Brown's Funeral Home: 410 NE Garfield St.; Camas, WA 98607 with reception to follow. In lieu of flowers, donations in Derek's name may be sent to any Lacamas Community Credit Union Branch. Ask for the Derek Barker Memorial Fund. Brown's Funeral Home and Cremation Services in Camas has been entrusted with arrangements.