David N. Barker ’51
March-April 2022
David N. Barker ’51 died at his home in Wayzata, Minnesota, on October 26, 2021, as a result of injuries sustained in an automobile accident. Dave spent his 36-year career with Prudential Insurance Co. of America, retiring as vice president of administrative services and regional comptroller. A chartered life underwriter, he frequently was called on to teach management courses within the company and industry. He served as an adjunct professor of economics and accounting at the University of Minnesota, where he earned a master’s in economics and industrial relations. In 1978 he spent a year on loan to the federal Office of Management and Budget during the Carter administration to help implement the Paperwork Reduction Act. Dave had a rich parallel career in the Twin Cities not-for-profit community, volunteering his services as a board member, board recruiter and developer, tutor, and hands-on deliverer of assistance to those in need. Among the organizations that benefited from his talents and energy were the Management Assistance Program for Non-Profits, the Community Investment Program, and the United Way. He chaired the St. Louis Park zoning board of appeals for 15 years. He was also dedicated to his church, filling virtually every senior lay role. He was a founding member of the Westminster Counseling Center and actively involved with the Twin Cities Presbytery. Other passions included sailing on Lake Minnetonka, travel, attending Minnesota Orchestra concerts, and cheering for Twin Cities sports teams of every kind.