Sandra "Sandy" Barker

Sandra (Sandy) Jean Barker age 63 (08-29-1956- 01-10-2020) lost her battle with stage 4 renal cell cancer.  Despite the challenges, she never lost her sense of humor or wit.  She faced her diagnosis with exceptional bravery and curiosity.  She read voraciously so that she was informed about her disease and treatment options. Her persistence lead her to Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center in Boston, Massachusetts. She was cared for by expert physicians and team members in biologic medication, Dr David McDermott and Virginia Seery NP.

She was born in Niles, Michigan to Joyce (Sibert) Barker and Carl Barker. Both preceded her in death, her mother at the young age of 50 and her father at age 69. She is survived by her brother Bruce Barker (Joann) Harrison Township Michigan. 

She graduated high school from Niles High School in Niles, Michigan. She went on to college at Western Michigan University. Sandy graduated with a BS in Physical Education in 1978. She moved to Florida shortly thereafter and eventually became a Registered Respiratory Therapist working at the bedside for many years and then pursued a Masters Degree in Healthcare Administration. She worked as a Director of Pulmonary Care in several different states before coming back to Sarasota in 2014.

She was an avid Notre Dame fan especially in the era of Lou Holtz. She also loved her Boston Red Sox, attending several games at Fenway Park over the years.

One of her last and most endearing accomplishments was riding in the Pan Mass Challenge, a 192 mile bicycle ride to raise money for cancer research for Dana Farber. She was most proud to be standing with other cancer patients and survivors in the “Living Proof” photo.

She leaves behind her precious fur baby, Maddie, her cherished friend and loving companion, Terri Gable, as well as a long list of loving friends that have encouraged, supported and loved her throughout her life.

A Celebration of Life will be held in the future.  In lieu of flowers, please donate to Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Cancer Care Fund in memory of Sandra J Barker www.bidmc.org/give/ways-to-give (Donate now) or your favorite charity.