George R. Barker

George R. Barker, 89, passed away at home on March 19, 2025.

He was born on April 29, 1935, in Reno, Nevada, to his beloved mother, the late Bernice Mudgette, whom he loved beyond words. At the age of 10, they moved to New York State, traveling by train, where he spent the remainder of his life in the Capital Region.

That train trip ignited his lifelong passion for the railroad. After settling in Schenectady, he would often go to the ALCO train yard to watch the assembly of trains, fueling that passion even more. One train in particular — the 1947 Freedom Train — became his obsession. As a boy, he befriended the workers, who allowed him into the factory to sweep floors and learn more about the craft. He watched many trains being built, but the Freedom Train captured his heart. Over the next 60 years, he amassed the world’s largest collection of memorabilia and became the foremost authority on the train’s history. He personally knew its designer, Chester Mack, as well as many of the engineers and guards who traveled aboard the Freedom Train as it circled the country, displaying some of America’s most treasured historical documents and artifacts. He was also an accomplished railroad photographer, with many of his photos still featured in train magazines today.

George’s early years in Nevada also gave him a deep appreciation for the American Indian culture. His knowledge of the history of every tribe was extensive. At one time, he owned one of the largest private collections of American Indian baskets, blankets, and artifacts. His respect for the culture later inspired him to take up woodcarving, carving under the name “Redwing.” His artwork earned praise from historians for its accuracy, and several of his pieces are displayed in museums and private collections across the country.

In his early career, George worked as a steeplejack, contributing to the restoration of the Church of St. Adalbert and St. John the Evangelist in Schenectady, NY. He was also a roofer and a painter before later joining the New York State Thruway, where he worked as a bridge repairman on many local bridges.

George was a country boy at heart. He loved nature and had a special fondness for the eagle, eastern bluebird, oriole, and cardinal. He cherished his garden and adored raising his chickens.

You wouldn’t know George long before he’d drop one of his famous history questions: “What happened on this date in 1852?” With a photographic memory and an incredible ability to recall details, he always had a historical tidbit ready — and you could count on being quizzed.

He is survived by two of his children, Jackilynne Barker and Shane Barker; nine grandchildren — Nichole, Cortney, Jaime, Justin, Zackery, Kameren, Mikaeli, Phoenix, and Fionn — and two great-grandchildren, Aubri and Skyelynne. He is also survived by his sister, Florence Cornetta.

In addition to his mother, George was predeceased by his daughter, Cherri Lynne Campito; his brothers, Robert, Edward, and Ernest Barker; and his sister, Bernice Rossi.

He was uncle to many nieces and nephews but shared a close bond with his nephew Terry and had a special relationship with his niece Roseann.

The family would like to extend special thanks to Lisa Matott, whose kindness, love, and care meant so much to George and his family at the end of his life. George considered her “one of his people” and spoke of her with great admiration.

Calling hours will be held Tuesday from 10 am – 12 noon at DeMarco-Stone Funeral Home 1605 Helderberg Ave., Rotterdam.

A 12 noon funeral service will immediately follow.

George will be laid to rest at St. Cyril’s Cemetery, Rotterdam.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to Shriners Hospitals for Children or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.