Rex Barber, 88, of Anita, Iowa, died Wednesday, September 17, 2025, at Heritage House in Atlantic, Iowa.
Rex Barber was born July 22, 1937, to Paul and Lois (Dorsey) Barber on the Barber farm north of Anita. He grew up with his brother and three sisters on the family farm working alongside his siblings, parents, and grandparents. In his younger years he learned to hunt, fish, and handle a gun.
Rex first met Janell Claussen when he was 12, and she was 9. They dated in high school and married at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Anita on August 1, 1956. They had four boys; Thomas, Roy, Jack and Dean. They were married for over 69 years. The family would often go camping. Later he would pick up photography, woodworking, and golf. They were avid card players, favoring a competitive game of pinochle. In retirement, Rex and Janell spent the winters in McAllen, Texas. They also ventured to Italy to visit Dean and his family, and they took a memorable cruise to Alaska, just to name a few excursions.
After high school he formed a farming partnership with his father and brother. Rex had a mechanically oriented mind. He could fix most anything. In 1969 he established Rex Barber Electric. As owner of Rex Barber Electric, he provided electrical and plumbing services to communities in southwest Iowa. The farming crisis of the early 80s negatively impacted his business but not his spirit. He worked for several employers later in life.
Rex and Janell were active members of the Good Shepherd Lutheran Church community in Adair. Rex was baptized on March 3, 1997.
Rex is survived by his wife, Janell (Claussen); sons, Thomas (Denise) Barber, Roy (Carol) Barber, Jack (Mitchell) Barber, and Dean Barber; grandchildren, Laura (Jason) Carley, Leisa (Stacey) Hamilton, Eric (Lucile) Barber, Aaron Barber, Dean Barber II, and Sasha (Eric) Rask; eight great-grandchildren; sisters, Lola Peterson and Norma (Glenn) Hemphill; brothers-in-law, Tim Akers and Jim (Mary) Claussen; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Paul and Lois (Dorsey) Barber; brother, Larry Barber; sister, Ruth Akers; granddaughter, Claire Barber; brother-in-law, Walter “Bud” Peterson; sisters-in-law, Connie Barber and Linda Barber.
Celebrating the lives of both Janell and Rex Barber, the family will host a visitation at 11 a.m., Friday, October 24, 2025, at the Anita Community Center and Celebration of Life Memorial service immediately following at Noon; a light lunch will be served.
Memorials may be made to the family for later designation.
Roland Funeral Service is caring for Rex’s family and assisting with his arrangements. Condolences may be left at www.rolandfuneralservice.com.
