sad news john barker passed away last night

[ronabneysr]

lakeland ledger sports writer covered all local races he was quite a guy
never forget the trip he took with a bunch of of in motor home to hooters race at hileah few years ago

we will really miss you the abney family from lakeland

[Sandy Nerone]

God Bless you old friend. John was a great guy and an avid race fan, promoter and writer. He loved racing, worked with many racers and many race tracks...wrote for Speedweeks at NSS for many years and loved the chili and hot dogs! John was a good and dear friend and we will miss him. Your days on earth will be remembered and treasured. Rest now in peace my friend and know that you are truly missed. Lord please be with Geri as she will miss John the most.

God Bless
Sandy and Don Nerone

[ancrdave]

Man, that's some terrible news... John was a super guy and a great writer and it didn't bother him if he stirred up a little controversy along the way... RIP, my friend...

[Rick Williamson]

Sorry to hear this. Toy Box Racing (The Williamson's) have known him since David started racing in 1990 at the old Lakeland Interstate track. And saw him many times at Auburndale when we moved over there. Our prayers are with his family. The Williamson

[Rick B.]

Sorry to hear, got to do TV with John in 1993 !

John was a good guy and knew racing and helped many more know about it. I got to do TV at Sunshine Speedway with him and Pete Orr in 1993 for the Leo Musgrave Memorial Florida Pro race, it was great !

God Speed John

[Rick Anges]

John Barker was a true newsman with a passion to get the "Story" I first met John at USA in the tower, I was sitting in "His seat" and was promptly scorned. Over the years we became good friends and had long conversations at every race we attended and boy could this guy make you laugh with his stories. We'll miss you John.

[AJ14]

John was one of the last of the true racing writers . He knew the sport , knew the drivers , and believed his readers should get to know them as well .

[Jane]

I am so sorry to hear of John's passing. John gave me his torch a few years back and asked me to carry on. He would call me when he thought I needed to be given a little kick in the pants but he was always good to me. He let me know when I was doing too much and what and how he would handle things. I will truly miss John and all his good advice and wisdom. John, you will be missed and never forgotten.

Jane