H.R. Tony Barkett, Jr.

H.R “Tony” Barkett, entered into eternal life on February 16, 2017. He was born on August 11, 1926 in Oilton, Oklahoma, the 4th of 8 children born to Haney and Selway Barkett. Raised in Buffalo, Oklahoma, his morning chore was milking the family cow, Bessie. At age 17 he enlisted in the Navy serving during WWII in the Pacific Theatre, which made him very proud. While living in Buffalo, Tony worked at a gas station pumping gas by hand and helped at the family business, "Barketts Department Store". Tony courted the love of his life, Gracie Farha, when she was in college at Colorado Womens College. Her friends were amazed as he had a different car each time he picked her up, (his job was transporting cars!). Tony and Grace were married on November 15th, 1953, having 2 children then moving to Wichita. He started Superior Foods Company, being the salesman, delivery guy and CEO, selling food to restaurants in small towns outside of Wichita. Eventually he went to work for F & E Wholesale Groceries for almost 50 years. He started in sales, became the head buyer, and eventually became an owner and Vice President before retiring. Tony worked alongside other warehouse employees in the warehouse when needed. He was highly respected as an honest businessman and a most caring friend. Tony loved his family deeply and sacrificially. He stood by his Gracie through many health problems of hers and her parents. He loved and supported his children his entire life and was never afraid to speak his mind to them. His grandchildren were a source of pride and joy. Tony raised the standard for being a son-in-law as his father-in-law had great respect and trust in him as a person and businessman. He loved babies and they ALWAYS found their way into his arms! He had a giving heart quietly helping those in need. Though a quiet person initially, Tony could have a good time with his great sense of humor. He knew how to make others quite comfortable in his home. His children learned the importance of hospitality. Their friends were always welcome at the Barkett house, especially if Grace was cooking. Tony Barkett is survived by his son, The Reverend John Barkett; daughter, Toni Sadler, son-in-law, David Sadler; grandchildren, Gregory Barkett, Christopher Sadler, and Abby Barkett; brothers-in-law, Farris Farha (Karen), Norman Farha (Carol); sisters-in-law, Gloria Farha-Flentje (Jack Focht), Julie Barkett; countless nephews and nieces; and Godchildren, along with his many brothers and sisters in Christ at St. George Orthodox Cathedral. He was preceded in death by his wife, Grace Barkett; parents, Haney and Selway Barkett; brothers, Milton Barkett (Lucille), Howard Barkett (Nadine), Adil Barkett, Phillip Barkett; sisters, Gloria Barkett, Marquita Farha (Frederick), Vicki Griffith (Glen); in-laws, Sam and Dolly Farha; nephew and Godson, Sam Farha. Viewing will be at Downing & Lahey Mortuary East from 2-4 p.m. on Sunday, February 19. Funeral Services will be 7:00 p.m. Monday, February 20th, at St. George Orthodox Cathedral, 7515 E. 13th; and burial Tuesday, February 21, at Wichita Park Cemetery at 11am. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Christ the Savior Academy, 7515 E. 13th, Wichita, KS 67206; or The Lords Diner, 520 N. Broadway, Wichita, KS 67214. May his memory be eternal!