Michael N. Barkley

On September 24, 2022, the mischievous and ever-brilliant Michael Barkley passed away at his home in Canon City, CO. A beloved husband, friend and brother, Michael’s wit left a lasting impression on everyone he knew, and his presence is one that will be greatly missed. He was charming, intelligent, vibrant and independent, an aesthete and an entrepreneur with a passion for the remodeling and the culinary arts. Michael also had a great love for animals, and in kind, they were drawn to him. His wife, Jeri, would affectionately refer to him as a “dog magnet,” for the way their pets would follow in his steps as he moved about their property, doing yard work. Though he was born in Bloomington, Indiana, Michael spent most of his childhood in the Canon City area, where he would go on to graduate from high school in 1974. He then went on to university studies, and spent a period of time in college, first at Adams State University, then CU Boulder, and eventually Wichita State, where he would ultimately complete his Bachelor’s. He worked in a number of different industries around the country, helping to man the oil fields in Oklahoma, serving as a chef in Indiana, and working for a retailer in California, before he eventually came to settle back in Colorado. In the early 2000s, after returning to Canon City, he started his own business, entitled “Bob’s House of…” where he sold janitorial supplies in local areas. Michael took great pride in giving his customers the best service that he possibly could, and his admirable work ethic no doubt contributed to his business’ success. Often, his dogs would ride shotgun with him as he was out making deliveries, and his adoration for them meant that they served as good company while he was out on the road. Michael was passionate about his home, and through his time living in Canon City, he worked on and renovated a handful of houses, both for himself, and his friends and family. After he and Jeri were married in 2003, he purchased his childhood home from his parents, and proceeded to fully gut and remodel it. He had a talent for working with his hands, and was incredibly skilled when it came to woodwork. Additionally, Michael loved to tend his yard, a beautiful stretch of green grass, complete with healthy trees and a full garden, which he was deeply proud of. Over the years, Michael would play host to a number of family get-togethers, and celebratory gatherings where he could revel in the company of his friends. Those who knew him regarded him as a vivacious figure, with an excellent taste in film and music, and a sense of humor that was absolutely unparalleled. Perhaps, in this case, it is no surprise that Michael’s request upon his passing was for those who knew him to hold a party, instead of a traditional service, to remember him and commemorate his lust for life. In death, Michael leaves behind his devoted wife of nineteen years, Jeri Barkley; siblings Jim (Cathy) Barkley, Kit Barkley and Mary (Tom) DeShong; step-children Donald Monaghini and Marlene (Greg) Vieyra; nephews and nieces Kristen (Andres) Madril, Jimmy (Wei) Barkley, Shane Barkley, Rachael Barkley, Joel (Ilena) Barkley and Aspen DeShong; along with innumerous friends, and his precious fur babies, Sasha and Shadow. His passing was preceded by that of his parents, Jim and Nita Barkley, and his brother, Richard (Sara) Barkley

At his request, cremation with no services held.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Michael N. Barkley, please visit our floral store.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Michael N. Barkley, please visit our floral store.