Bruce Brabrook Barker, 77
Bruce Brabrook Barker, 77, died peacefully with his family by his side on Wednesday, November 12, 2025, at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center in Boston.
A fourth-generation Concordian, Bruce was born on February 11, 1948, as the son of the late George and Marynette (Knipmeyer) Barker. He attended Acton Public Schools and graduated from Acton-Carlisle High School in 1966. Bruce was president of his senior class and captain of the CCHS football team. Subsequently, he earned a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from Eastern Michigan University, and completed a master’s program in police administration from University of Michigan. During his college years, he joined the debate team at Eastern Michigan and competed as a national champion in shotput.
At the record-setting young age of 24, Bruce was appointed chief for the Littleton and Boxborough Police Department, a role he served with pride and dedication for over a decade. At the time of his service, both departments shared a chief. He later worked as a private investigator. Later in his professional life, prior to retirement, Bruce was employed by Newbury Court in Acton and St. Francis House.
He became involved with the Acton Independent Battery as a teenager. He was a devoted member for many years, serving as both captain and president. Bruce enjoyed spending summers on Crystal Lake in Michigan and in Biddeford, Maine. He would often enjoy sailing excursions with his good friend Dodge Morgan. Bruce adored his dogs, Diesel, Ripkin, and Bourbon and cherished his cat, Skunk, all of whom brought him comfort and companionship during their lives.
Bruce is survived by his beloved wife of 38 years, Susan A. (Hedlund) Barker, and his loving daughter, Leah Anne (Barker) Koehler-Rice and her husband Leland. He was predeceased by his brother Charles W. Barker.
Family and friends will gather for visiting hours at the Dee Funeral Home, Acton Center, on Friday, November 21, from 4 to 7 p.m. His funeral service will take place on Saturday, November 22, at 11 a.m. in First Parish, Acton Center. Burial will follow at Sleepy Hollow Cemetery.
Donations in Bruce’s honor may be made to the Acton Independent Battery, P.O. Box 1804, Acton, MA 01742.
Arrangements are entrusted to Dee Funeral Home & Cremation Service of Acton. To share a remembrance or to offer a condolence on Bruce’s tribute page, visit DeeFuneralHome.com.
