LISBON FALLS — Retired SFC Bari Virgil Milliken, 68, died peacefully on May 5, 2023 at Androscoggin Hospice House in Auburn, Maine. He resided many years in Lisbon Fall, Maine.

Bari was born in Biddeford, Maine on October 1, 1954 to Bert Milliken and Irene (Heal) Milliken.

Bari joined the U.S. Army in 1970 and he specialized as an Instructor for the majority of his military years. He was known as the “Wizard or Hero”. Bari spent the majority of his career in Germany. Bari received many awards including Meritorious Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Overseas Service Ribbons, National Defense Service Medal Award, Conduct Medal Medal and several ribbons while serving in the U.S. Army. 

Bari retired in 1992 and continued to work in the civilian workforce for another ten years. 

Bari enjoyed to watching his favorite football team, the New England Patriots. He would always yell at the Ref “Where’s the holding?”. Bari had a New England hound with a button that played a tune and held his arms and when the Patriots scored a touchdown Bari would pressed the hound so he could do a Victory dance for the Patriots. Bari also enjoyed Nascar and his favorite driver for years was Mark Martin.

Bari loved to help others; friends, and whoever needed assistance. He was a leader as he was in his career in the U.S. Army. He enjoyed teaching others especially his son, Scott.

Bari loved his dog, Brady, and Brady will miss his buddy. 

Bari is predeceased by his mother, Irene; grandmother Rita; and uncle David Heal.

He is survived by his wife of 35 years, Janice Crawford of Lisbon Falls; his beloved son, Scott Milliken and girlfriend, Emily Shores, of Biddeford; his brother, Todd Milliken and wife Amy of Brooks; his sisters Heidi Gamage and husband Richard of Rockland, Wendi Howard of Georgia, and Laurie Beylerian of Calais; two lovely granddaughters, Natalie and Chloe of Biddeford. 

Survived by several nieces, nephews and great nieces and friends.

A private family graveside service will be held at the Maine Veterans Memorial Cemetery, Augusta, Maine. Bari wishes were to not have a Celebration of Life or funeral service and everyone to remember the great times they had with him when he was around. 

The family wishes to thank from the bottom of their hearts, the New England Cancer Specialist team, and the Androscoggin Hospice House of Auburn, Maine for their compassionate care and kindness.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Cancer Society in the memory of Bari Milliken or the Midcoast Humane Animal Shelter, Brunswick, Maine. 

Memories and condolences may be shares at ripostafh.com.