Dave Barkmeier, 72, passed suddenly after a short illness. He was the only child of Ray and Helen Harris Barkmeier of Plymouth, Indiana. He was an avid reader of history and all things Shakespeare. Dave was also a lifelong Yankee fan while also enjoying history, politics, baseball, golf, contract bridge, trees, jazz, and the preparation and eating of fine food and wine. He considered his dogs, Pub and Yogi as part of his family.
After retiring Dave returned to Plymouth. He quickly made many contributions to local non-profit organizations and was a real asset to the city of Plymouth. Dr. Barkmeier’s academic achievements were numerous. After graduating with the Plymouth High School class of 1967, he received a B.A. in psychology from Indiana University South Bend in May 1972. He earned an M.A. in psychology at Western Michigan University. Dave began his doctoral work at Georgia State University in Atlanta and continued at the University of Florida to complete his PhD in1978. He began his teaching career in 1979 at Northeastern University in Boston and remained there for over 25 years.
The professor had a memory for detail, enjoyed math and had a wonderfully quirky sense of humor. He was a consummate back seat driver who always knew the fastest way to get anywhere. Above all Dave was an honest man and a loyal friend. He will long be remembered and missed by many.
As per his wishes, there will be no services. Donations thru the funeral home will go to the Humane Society of Marshall Co, PO Box 22, Plymouth, IN 46563, and be used to plant a tree in Dave’s name at River Park Square, where he often walked his dogs.
Michael L Bergman says
Farewell, my friend. Childhood neighbor. So fortunate to renew our friendship in the town we both loved. A fighter for truth and justice, the past four years may have taken its toll. Lifelong Yankee fan. Unsurpassed Euchre partner. Bon Vivant. Shirley and I will toast you often. Until we meet again.
MARYGRACE Woodfill Oakes and Chester. says
Remembering the early years as a neighbor on Lewis Street. In a short block and a half there were many of us within a couple years of age. During our 40 years in the Phoenix area when we would journey back to Plymouth we would drive Walnut and Plum to check out the home neighborhood. Even saw your Mom several times with my Mom. We were all good kids. David, thinking of you and your dogs with fondness!
Nathan Mayer says
Dr. Barkmeier was a wonderful, friendly, funny, and kind man who I very much enjoyed seeing and conversing with when I was working at the library. He loved discussing movies, both popular and obscure, and was always interested in a recommendation or two, along with providing me suggestions of things to watch from himself. Though I may not have known him for long, I’m thankful for the time that I did know him. Rest easy, doctor.
Beverly Van Gilder says
Peace be to the memory of my fellow classmate, David Barkmeier, Class of 1967.
Beverly (White) Van Gilder
James Clevenger says
I first met senior David when he was helping a struggling PHS freshman with his Algebra assignment. I thought then he was one of the smartest individuals I knew.
My infrequent contact with him over the next 45 years confirmed he in fact was one of the smartest persons I met. And that was not just because he was an IU fan.
I will miss your quick wit. I look forward to the tree in River Park Square donated in your memory which is so David Barkmeier.
Jo Ann steigmeyer says
As a bridge teacher, I welcomed Dave into my class because of his enthusiasm, his passion to learn a new skill, and his ability to ask probing questions about the game. He made me both a better teacher and a better player. Also, he was just a nice guy who I was privileged to call a friend. I miss him.
Kathleen Husband says
Condolences to Dave’s friends. Family is special but friends, just as precious, are family by choice. May you find peace in having known him.
Bill Hetrick says
My condolences to Dr. Barkmeier’s friends and loved ones. A smart man, indeed, but even more so a generous man with a deep interest in the well-being of others, including young people striving to be their best. Peace.