A chaplain was found dead in his home near Ramstein Air Base in Germany on Sunday morning.

Col. Lonnie B. Barker, command deputy chaplain for U.S. Air Forces in Europe, was declared dead at about 5 a.m. by local medical authorities, according to USAFE spokeswoman Darlene Cowsert.

Barker, 53, had served in his position for 15 months and was in the Air Force for 23 years, she said.

The chaplain lived in Bann and is survived by his wife and four children. The cause of death is under investigation.

Gen. Roger Brady, USAFE commander, said Barker was a "dedicated and vital member" of the USAFE team.

"We extend our deepest sympathy and heartfelt prayers to the Barker family at this time of great loss," he said in a statement.

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