Clifton L. Barger, Sr.

Master Sergeant (Retired) Clifton L. Barger, Sr., (Cliff) passed away peacefully on Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Oklahoma City. Born on July 30, 1940, in Claremore, Oklahoma to Fred L. and Nellie G. (Brown) Barger, Cliff's life was marked by his unwavering commitment to his country and his family.

Cliff answered the call to serve his nation when he joined the U.S. Army on December 12, 1966. After completing his initial enlistment, he continued his service in the U. S. Army Reserves and National Guard. His dedication to military service was further exemplified in 1981 when he began is initial Active-Duty Reserve tour culminating as a two-time Chief's 50 Award as both a recruiter and retention career counselor. He served as a recruiter and retention specialist mentoring countless individuals throughout the remainder of his career until his retirement in July 30, 2000. He retired with the esteemed rank of Master Sergeant, a testament to his leadership and commitment. Beyond his direct service, Cliff was an active member of several respected organizations, including the National Guard Association at both the national and Oklahoma state levels, a long-time member of the National Rifle Association, and a dedicated former Mason.

Above all, his greatest treasures were his family. Cliff was a devoted husband to his wife, Nola G. Barger of Shawnee, Oklahoma. Together, they nurtured a loving home where their children thrived. His daughter Kim Winterringer and her husband John reside in Shawnee, as do his son Pete Barger and wife Crystal. Cliff's joy was multiplied through his grandchildren: Amber Stanislawski and her husband Mike of Parker, Colorado; Kelsey Winterringer of Oklahoma City; Connor Winterringer and his fiancée Lexi McAlister of Shawnee; and Elle and Olivia Barger, both of Shawnee. The family legacy continues with the great-grandchildren—Zoe, Max, and Nash Stanislawski and Octavia McIntyre, who carry forward his spirit and memory.

Cliff was also survived by his siblings: Charles Barger of Texas; Jim Barger and wife Judy of Oklahoma; and Patsy Reed of Texas. He was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Fred L. Barger and Nellie G. (Brown) Folks, and his sister Rama Lee McClellan.

A graveside ceremony with full U.S. Army Honors will be held on Saturday, May 9, 2026, at 10:00 am at the pavilion at Fairview Cemetery in Shawnee, with Rev. Larry Sparks officiating.

Cliff may be remembered with a memorial gift to the St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105, www.stjude.org/donate.

Arrangements are under the direction of Walker Funeral & Cremation Service, www.walkerfuneral.com.