Obituary: Stephan D. Barley

Born to Melvin and JoAnne Barley in Meeker, Colo., Steve spent his childhood exploring the mountains and meadows surrounding Meeker. He attended Meeker schools, graduating from Meeker High School in 1981.
Steve was an entrepreneur from an early age, scouring alleys and campsites for pop bottles to redeem, to a lawn mowing business where he made enough money in one summer to purchase a riding lawnmower for the next. After graduation Steve spent a few years working in the Piceance area, then moved to Tucson, Ariz., where he went to work as a carpenter using the skills he learned in his high school building and trades class (actually building a house in the parking lot of the school). A hard worker with a good ethic, he quickly moved up the ranks and became a crew foreman where he remained for a few years before moving to Elko, Nev. From Elko he moved to Port St. Lucie, Fla., where he carried on the trade and then to Cripple Creek, Colo., where he took part in renovating historical buildings into the present-day casinos. Steve eventually moved home to Meeker where he started his own successful carpentry business.
While in Florida Steve was able to take advantage of two of his favorite pastimes, deep sea fishing and NASCAR at Daytona. He worked hard and played hard, enjoying hunting, fishing, snowmobiling and spending time with his family and friends, but was best known for his acts of kindness. He was always willing to lend a hand to someone in need.
Steve was preceded in death by his grandparents Virgil and Sylvia Barley, and Hermie and Elizabeth Dunham. Survivors who had the privilege of sharing his life are his parents Melvin and JoAnne Barley; brother Dan Barley; sisters Becky Gullion and Lisa (Mike) Cook, all of Meeker; 10 nieces and nephews; and two great-nephews. A memorial service is planned for 1 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 19 at the Fairfield Center in Meeker. Memorial donations may be made to the organization of your choice in Steve’s name.