Master Sergeant (Retired) Clifton L. Barger, Sr., (Cli) passed away April 28, 2026Cli was born on July 30, 1940, in Claremore, OK to Fred L. and Nellie G. (Brown) Barger.
Cli answered the call to serve his nation when he joined the U.S. Army on Dec. 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 his 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 with the esteemed rank of Master Sergeant.
Cli was a devoted husband to his wife, Nola G. Barger of Shawnee, OK. 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. Cli'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. Cli was also survived by his siblings: Charles Barger of TX; Jim Barger and wife Judy of OK; and Patsy Reed of TX.
He was preceded in death by his beloved parents and his sister, Rama Lee McClellan.
A graveside ceremony with full U.S. Army Honors was held on May 9, 2026 at the pavilion at Fairview Cemetery in Shawnee, with Rev. Larry Sparks ociating. Arrangements were under the direction of Walker Funeral & Cremation Service.
