John Van Norden BarkerSimpsonvilleJohn Van Norden Barker, 94, passed away peacefully at his home in Simpsonville, SC on Saturday, June 24, 2017. He was born on May 3, 1923, Newark, NJ, to Harold Van Norden Barker and Flora McDonald Barker.Mr Barker proudly served in WWII, belonging to the 232nd Rainbow infantry division of the army. He fought in France and Germany earning two Bronze stars and was also a Purple Heart recipient. He was a 1949 graduate of Georgia Tech and moved to Greenville, SC soon afterwards where he founded Barker Air & Hydraulics, Inc. along with it's division, Barker Products. The business is thriving and still in the competent hands of family.John had an immense passion for travel, having set foot on six of the seven continents. A pilot, he took great joy in experiencing new adventures. He also loved his boats and spending much time in his beloved Abaco Islands, Bahamas. He took great joy in sharing his experiences and possessions with others as many can attest.Mr. Barker is survived by his loving wife of 30 years, Marie Felder Barker, his children, Van Barker (wife, Sharon), Jeff Barker (wife, Kelli), Drew Barker (wife, Terrie) and Dona Sims (husband, Ron). Six grandchildren include Ryan Mattison, Summer Manley, Andrew Barker, Jameson Barker, Jensea Barker, and Corey Barker, He was preceded in in death by two grandsons, Trey Barker and Jesse Barker.In memory of John, donation can be made to the CCA, Concerned Citizens for Animals, Simpsonville, SC A celebration of his life will take place at the family farm on Sunday, July 9th from 3 PM-6 PM.