Donna Lynn Barker

Born to Lee Clifford and Florence Bernice (Lininger) McKinley, she graduated from Lansing Everett High School in 1958. Donna married Bobby “Bob” Gene Barker in February 1970, and together they shared a life filled with love and laughter. Donna is survived by her loving husband, Bob Barker; and brothers-in-law, Bernhart "Ben" Barker, David (Bonnie) Barker, William "Bill" (Dixie) Barker, Wayne (Nanette) Barker, and Edward Thorn.

Donna truly valued connection. She cherished her relationships with her nieces and nephews, held a special bond with her neighbors; including Debi and Cassie Pinkel (Matthew Mohler), Jessica (Joel) Bain, and Jonathon Pinkel (Anne Prather), and truly adored her extended family, including Glen, Nettie, Rachel Light (Timothy, Sydney, and Andrew), Will and Gabe Stevens. Donna was preceded in death by her beloved parents and her brother, Gerald “Jerry” McKinley.

For 51 years, Donna resided at Devonshire in Lansing, MI. A dedicated employee, she worked at Arlan’s Department Store and later at Meijer, where she retired after 27 years of service.

Donna’s passions included cooking, crocheting, and needlepoint. She was eager to create sewn treasures, and even more delighted to pass them on to all whom she loved. She enjoyed traveling and collecting treasures from her trips and was particularly fond of her adventures to Walt Disney World shared with her brother Jerry, Bob, and Edward and her trip with Bob to Ireland.

Donna was always ready to feed others. Whether buying candy for the kids, or making mouthwatering goodies to share at family gatherings, she never missed an opportunity to make sure everyone left with a full belly and a smile. Her warm hospitality was evident when the family stayed over, where one may be treated to her delicious chicken and dumplings, tater tot casserole or homemade pies.

Donna was a thoughtful sender of cards for birthdays and holidays. While she loved all holidays, Christmas was a truly special time of year for Donna, who adored buying decorations and preparing festive meals. She was a true lover of both people and animals, and she held a warm place in her heart for her dog, DeeDee.

Known for her spunky personality, quick wit, and kind hugs, Donna will be deeply missed by family and friends, who will always remember her warmth, kindness, and love for life.

A funeral service will be held on Friday, October 18, 2024 at 12:30 PM, with a visitation from 11:00 AM to 12:30 PM, at Gorsline Runciman Funeral Home East Chapel, 1730 E Grand River Ave., East Lansing, MI 48823.

In lieu of flowers, please honor Donna’s memory with a contribution to the Make a Wish Foundation, 1702 E Highland Ave., Suite 400, Phoenix, AZ 85016.