Randall "Randy" Barber

November 12, 1953 — March 11, 2026

Randall "Randy" Barber passed away peacefully at home on March 11, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family. Born on November 12, 1953, Randy was a lifelong Sioux City resident and a graduate of Central High School. He will be remembered as a devoted husband, a dedicated stepdad, and a loving, proud grandpa who never met a stranger and always had a story to tell.

Randy’s career was a testament to his hard-working spirit and craftsmanship. Many will remember him from his days behind the bar at the original "old" Buffalo Alice. He eventually traded the bar top for the toolkit, spending the majority of his career as a Union Carpenter. He dedicated the bulk of his years to Burke Engineering, where he specialized in installing acoustical ceilings, and was one of the best in the ceiling business.

Beyond his work, Randy was the life of every gathering. Known for his signature Black Russians and an endless vault of stories and "shenanigans," he kept those around him laughing with an unforgettable, often sassy, sense of humor. Even in his final days, Randy never lost his sharp wit or his ability to land a joke. To Randy, if you were a friend, you were family. He especially cherished his time at the "Boy Scout" meetings with his close friends and his frequent visits to see family in Phoenix. Most of all, Randy deeply cherished every moment with his wife, Trish; the two were inseparable.

Randy was preceded in death by his wife, Trish Barber; his parents, Robert and Ruby Barber; and his brother, Bob Barber.

He will be remembered by those who survived him, including his step-sons, Matt Thompson (Amy) of Sioux City and Andy Thompson (Jayme Wolken) of Arizona; and his two grandsons, Luke and Jack Thompson. He also leaves behind his extended family and many friends, all of whom Randy considered to be part of his family.

Service Information

A celebration of Randy’s life will be held on April 4, 2026, in Sioux City, Iowa. The venue and specific time are currently being determined and will be announced once finalized.

Memorials

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Children's Miracle Network, in memory of Randy Barber.