Gary Michael Barko

Gary Michael Barko

December 6, 1951 – October 14, 2024

Gary Michael Barko was born December 6, 1951, in Omaha to John and Beverly L. ( Roland) Barko.  He died October 14, 2024, at home, surrounded by his family.

Gary was a devoted sports enthusiast, playing hockey, football, and baseball in his youth. Throughout his life, he owned multiple bars, including DJ’s, where he met Joyce, his partner in both love and leisure. Together, they enjoyed playing on a coed softball team and in a bowling league, but their greatest joy came from cheering on their kids’ sports.

With a deep love for animals, Gary shared a special bond with their lively bird, Pockets, known for its colorful language, and in his final days, he found comfort with Nicole’s boxer, Tito. He had a wealth of life stories and cherished moments spent with lifelong friends. Gary leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and unforgettable memories for all who knew him.

Gary is survived by his children, Nicole (Ehren) Herd, Jon Ryan (Maddie) Barko and Brett (Ellie) Barko; his grandchildren: Rylin, Braxton, Harper, Aniston, Kendall, Oaklyn and Cayden; his nephew,Jeffrey Caniglia; and niece, Amity Carlson; many extended family members.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Joyce Ann (Mortensen) Barko; his siblings, Sandra (late Louie) Caniglia, Jon Clark Barko and Pam (Kevin) Mader; and by his parents.

VISITATION:  Sunday, October 20, 2024, from 2:00-4:00PM, MEMORIAL SERVICE: at 4:00PM., West Center Chapel, 7805 W. Center Road, Omaha.

Private Interment

12 Comments

  • Bob milenkovich Posted October 17, 2024 5:02 pm

    Our prayers are with your family

  • Mark Shelton Posted October 17, 2024 5:18 pm

    From 1960 until my family moved to Tampa in 1967 I couldn’t have asked for a more awesome neighbor, close friend and takented multi-sport teammate than Gary Barko, The 1,500 miles and 58 years which have separated us haven’t in any way lessened the sorrow which came with today’s phone call advising me of Gary having passed on to a better place. Rest in peace my brother. You will always be loved, admired and respected and I will never forget the pleasure of your company.

  • Sharon Siebels Posted October 17, 2024 5:21 pm

    My sympathy to you all. Gary’s wife Joyce was a dear high school into life long friend. I’m so sorry you now have had to say goodbye to your Dad. I’m sure Joyce was waiting with Heavenly open arms and together they will be for eternity watching over you all until you are all joined again😍🥰. Till then rejoice in your wonderful memories. Sharon Siebels

  • Joe & Judy Brazda Posted October 17, 2024 5:23 pm

    Sorry for your loss. He was a great friend.

  • Sandy Hendricks Posted October 17, 2024 6:21 pm

    I am so sorry to hear about Gary. Ron(deceased) & myself (Sandy Hendricks) have know Gary & Joyce back when the guys played ball for DJ’s when John Digilio owed it. He was a very loveabl person.

  • Jim HurleyJ Posted October 17, 2024 6:24 pm

    Prayers for Gary. He will be mis missed Many fond memories and many great times. He will not have pain anymore. He is with the rest of the family and in better place..

  • Sandy Hendricks Posted October 17, 2024 6:26 pm

    I am sorry to hear about Gary’s death. He was a very lovable person. Ron (deceased) & myself (Sandy Hendricks) have known Gary & Joyce when the guys played ball together for DJ’s when John Digilio.

  • Jimmy McGuire Posted October 17, 2024 6:30 pm

    Sorry for your loss. I meat your dad at Peglars back in the early 80 s..lots of good times with him.will miss him

  • Bob Scudder Posted October 17, 2024 9:42 pm

    Gary was an employee who became a dear friend. Although we didn’t see each other often in later years I have many many wonderful memories of fun, sports, drinking a beer and enjoying life. He and Joyce were friends for many years ❤️❤️

  • Steve Fila Posted October 18, 2024 1:45 pm

    Tons of memories of Gary, from High School & DJ’s Bar. Miss him & Louie, DJ’s was a high school hangout. Still laugh, to this day, remembering all the characters there, and remember Linky giving Tucker hot sauce on Slim Jims. Prayers for his family and Gary rest in peace..

  • Gregory Cavalieri Posted October 19, 2024 12:44 pm

    HAVE A SAFE JOURNEY GARY.I SO ENJOYED HAVING YOU PART OF MY LIFE.
    CIAO MY FRIEND.

  • Dave Semerad Posted October 19, 2024 5:06 pm

    Gary, you were a good teammate and friend during our days at Ryan. Prayers and blessings for your family and to all who cared for you during your illness. God Bless you and give you eternal peace.

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