John Oliver Barger, 71, of Fayetteville, Arkansas departed this life on Monday, January 25, 2021 with his family by his side.

John entered this life on February 26, 1949 in Giddings, Texas, born to the union of John and Cecelia (Jarutowicz) Barger.  He proudly served his country in the United States Navy for 21 years and 19 days.  He served in the Vietnam War and on numerous Navy ships during his enlistment, retiring as an E-7, Chief Petty Officer.  After retiring from the Navy, John worked for the Fayetteville National Cemetery for 13 years.  John loved to spend time in his “Shade-Tree Garage”, working on his many projects.  He always enjoyed when friends and family would show up to help on his projects or to just hang out.  He was extremely proud of the accomplishments of his children and grandchildren and loved to tell anybody that would listen.  John had the biggest heart and would bend over backwards to help whomever was in need.

He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Cecelia Barger and his brother, George.

John is survived by two brothers, Adrian Rouse and wife Sue of Austin TX and Robert Barger of Fayetteville AR; his children, Sonny McNeilis and husband Sean of Battlefield, MO, Jenny Poe of Fayetteville AR and Daniel Barger and Kristi Tosh, also of Fayetteville.  Six grandchildren, Cody, Kaley, Sydnee, Jacob M., Jacob P., and Megan along with a host of other family and friends.

The family will receive friends on Sunday, January 31, 2021 from 2:00-4:00 p.m. at Beard’s Funeral Chapel in Fayetteville.

Funeral services will be held on Monday, February 1, 2021 at 11:30 a.m. at Beard’s Funeral Chapel.  Interment will follow in the Fayetteville National Cemetery with military honors.