John's story

On March 30, 2017, John Patrick Barker suffered a severe traumatic brain injury from a skateboarding fall in San Francisco, California at the intersection of 33rd Ave. and Clement St. No other vehicles were involved. No other persons were involved. Two days later, on March 30th, he passed away from the injuries he sustained.

John was only 20 years old. Growing up in Little Rock, AR, he eventually graduated from Little Rock Central High School as a member of the Cum Laude Society and the National Honor Society. He won the “Most School Spirit” award for his senior class. Because of his efforts he received a scholarship to attend the University of San Francisco.

John was active in his church, he excelled in sports, especially soccer, and sought “thrill and excitement in every hobby." He thrived on music and “had a fearlessness and love of life that shone through every activity he took part in.”

In an effort to prevent future and deaths from skateboarding injuries, reduce risks associated with skateboarding injuries, the Barker family established a helmet and education fund in his memory. John’s family hopes to “protect young people’s lives and health, and to spare other families the loss they have experienced.” Follow the tabs above to register for a free helmet, learn about skateboarding safety and/or to donate to the John Barker Loves You fund.