Aleen Deon (Merkley) Barker

Aleen Deon (Merkley) Barker, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully on June 2, 2025, at the age of 79. Aleen was born on May 17, 1946, in Vernal, Utah, to Oral and Arvid Merkley. On June 4, 1962, she married the love of her life, Terry Barker, in the Salt Lake City Temple. Their love story was filled with laughter, hard work, and countless adventures-especially in the mountains they both cherished. Aleen had a deep love for her family and friends. Nothing brought her more joy than being surrounded by her grandchildren, often sneaking in a playful joke or a clever prank that left everyone laughing. Her fun-loving nature and warm heart made her a magnetic presence in every room. She had a remarkable way of making people feel seen, loved, and welcomed. She dedicated 28 years of her life to the Uintah School District as a custodian, where she worked with quiet dignity and kindness. Aleen was also deeply involved in Scouting, where she earned her wood badge beads-a recognition she was so passionate about, she even traveled to England to receive them. She was a proud Girls Camp Director for many years, and her legacy of leadership, laughter, and learning in the outdoors continues through the lives of those she mentored. Aleen had a special gift for teaching outdoor cooking and shared her talents with anyone willing to learn. She loved spending time in the mountains, riding mules with Terry to the high Uintahs, and making memories around campfires and trails. The outdoors wasn't just a hobby-it was her sanctuary. A devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Aleen found joy and peace serving in the temple alongside Terry. Together, they also loved to dance and were regulars at the Golden Age Center, where their shared joy lit up the dance floor. Aleen is survived by her loving children: Teralene (Brian) Slaugh, Clark (Linda) Barker, Rita (Gene) Smith, and Leroy Alires; 11 grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren; her siblings Connie (Ned) Cook, Lynne Merkley, and RaVae; and her cherished in-laws: Bryce (Carol-Jean) Barker, Monte (LouAnn) Barker, Kay Atwood, and Sue (Reid) Cook. She was welcomed into heaven by her eternal companion, Terry; her parents, Arvid and Oral Merkley; her brother, Ray Merkley; sister, Jean Hofeltz; foster child, Darrick Hale; her in-laws, Ken and Gladys Barker; brother-in-law, Mac Atwood; and sister-in-law, Letha Barker. Funeral services for Aleen will be held on Friday, June 6, at 11:00 a.m. at the Maeser 4th Ward LDS Chapel (2575 North 1500 West). A visitation for family and friends will take place Thursday evening from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the Phillips Ashley Valley Funeral Home (410 North 800 West) and on Friday from 9:45 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. at the church. She will be laid to rest next to her sweetheart, Terry, in the Dry Fork Cemetery. Aleen's life was full of love, laughter, and unwavering devotion to her family and faith. Her legacy of joy, strength, and compassion will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.