Michael Kim Barber

Michael Kim Barber, age 64 of Cottonwood AZ (formerly of Adrian, MI), passed away Monday, October 16, 2023, at the Verde Valley Hospital. Mike was born on March 28, 1959 to Vernon and Dollena Barber in Phoenix, Arizona.

Mike attended Coronado High School, graduating in 1977, and then went on to attend Christian Heritage College. During his school years he was a trumpet player and a member of the marching band. He worked as a printing press operator for 25 years before moving to an armed guard position with ArmorKnight Security. His most recent years were spent working for Groome Transportation. Mike enjoyed fishing, playing church league softball, and hunting with both bow and rifle. He was also proud of the fact that he went through flight schooling and obtained his pilots license. Mike had a passion for watching sports, specifically baseball and football. He even spent time coaching these sports when his son was young. His favorite teams to cheer for were the Arizona Cardinals, Arizona Diamondbacks, Detroit Tigers, Michigan Wolverines, and any team his grandchildren played for. Mike also enjoyed watching movies and attending any events his grandchildren were involved in to show his love and support.

Mike is survived by his mother Dollena Barber (Cottonwood, Arizona); his brother, Mark Barber (Cottonwood, Arizona); his daughter, Carrie Soto (Adrian, Michigan); son Chad (Heather) Barber (Adrian, Michigan); grandchildren Andrew Soto, Alivia Soto, Cameron Barber, Apollo Soto, and Keegan Barber; girlfriend Shari Steiner; and nephew Raymond Barber. Mike was preceded in death by his father, Vernon Barber and the mother of his children, Kay.

Mike will be cremated so there will not be an open visitation.  However, a public celebration of life service will be held on Tuesday, October 24, 2023 at 5:00pm at Journey Church in Cottonwood, Arizona. Mike’s cousin Pastor Don Gentry and Pastor Jeremy Peters of Journey Church will officiate the service.  In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Celebrate Recovery Group at Journey Church.