Orel Antoinette (Kaplan) Barker was born Nov. 5, 1917, to Emil H. and Nettie F. (Wavrin) Kaplan in Owatonna, Minn. She graduated from Owatonna High School. Orel was united in marriage to Lyle Barker on Aug. 27, 1942, at First Congregational Church in Falmouth, Mass. After their marriage, Orel and Lyle moved around to several places while Lyle was in the service. They eventually moved to Cape Cod, Fla., and then back to Fairmont after Lyle was out of the service. Orel kept busy as a homemaker and was a self-taught artist who loved creating many different things. She made several art exhibits at the hospital. Orel was a member of First Congregational United Church of Christ in Fairmont and was the president of the Martin County Preservation Association which helped in restoring the Chubb House and the Red Rock Center. She loved spending time outside gardening and could often be found out collecting antiques and collectibles. Those left to cherish her memory include her sons, Kent Barker of Fairmont, and Stephen (Debra) Barker of Jordan; five grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; and other extended family. She was preceded in death by her parents, Emil and Nettie Kaplan; husband, Lyle Barker; and daughter, Jeanne Barker. Orel’s favorite local charity was the Martin County Animal Humane Society. In lieu of flowers, the family has suggested any cash gifts and memorials be channeled in that direction. http://www.mchsofmn.org/donate.html. www.lakeviewfuneralhome.net

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