Search by Name
Search by Name
Barbara Nordyke (Cruson) Age 61 passed suddenly on December 24, 2010 at her home in Sarteneja, Belize Central America. She was born on September 8, 1949, in Auburn, Washington. The daughter of Carl A. and Helen L. Cruson. She grew up in Auburn and cherished her close family, graduating from Auburn High School 1967. Barb and Darrell Nordyke were high school sweethearts who spent 43-years together building a life, business and raising two lovely daughters. Miss Barbie as she was called in the village of Sarteneja spent her winters in Belize and summers in Hood Canal making friends where ever she went. Barbara worked for Tradewell Grocery, but left the industry to partner with her husband and purchased the Hillstop Country Store and Darrell's Garage in Sumner, Washington. Barbs genuine personality and infectious laugh made the Hillstop the place to be greeted with a smile and get your morning coffee (even if you had to make it yourself). Even later in life their bridge of friendships reached as far away as a small village in Belize where recently a former customer reconnected with Darrell upon hearing of Miss Barbie's passing. Barbara will be remembered for her love, laughter, family and friends, her sense of humor and beautiful gardens. She always enjoyed preparing for the holidays, especially Christmas. Barb was known for welcoming guests as family to her home, cabins or vacations. Often described as the life of the party Barb's ability to enjoy and entertain friends and family was always contagious. Barbara is survived by her true love, husband Darrell, daughters Julie Moltke (Glenn), Jennifer Nordyke, grandsons Riley, Quinncy, sister Marcia (Jerry) Farren, and brothers Donald (Jan) Cruson, Ronald (Melody) Cruson, several brother and sisters-in-law and many special nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, sisters Elsie and Georgia, and niece Trisha. A Celebration and Memorial will be held Saturday, January 22nd at 4pm at the Sumner United Methodist Church, 901 Wood Avenue, Sumner Washington. Reception to follow.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Barb was a wonderful person. I grew up with Barband went to the same schools. I remember playing baseball in the fields and pastures in the neighborhood, playing on the merry-go-round that my dad made, Brownies/Girl Scouts, picking berries at Ish and Himay's farm, and selling popcorn and stuff out of the bus shed (most kids exchanged one thing for another). The whole neighborhood went to the same church. It was a fun neighborhood in which to grow up. Good memories and a lot of fun. I only wish I'd kept in touch with Barb. I still remember her laugh and impish good nature. She will be missed. I'm sorry for your loss.
Chris Smith (Tufte)
January 31, 2011
Barb was always so warm and welcoming to her big beautiful home behind Maple Lawn Elementary. I spent a lot of time playing with Jenn there as a kid. Her kindness and easy-going ways will be missed.
Cyndie Chaplik-McCammant
January 22, 2011
There is something special about the friendships we make as we are growing up.
There is a special bond I will always feel for Barb and she will be missed.
Barbara Davis
January 19, 2011
Your caring heart, silly jokes and wonderful laugh will be in our memory forever.You made the world smile!!!
Jenn Nordyke
January 18, 2011
Jenn Nordyke
January 18, 2011
I am so sorry for all of your loss. Barb was an amazing lady, so full of life it is hard to understand how she could be so quickly gone. My prayers are with you all...
Kandi Holgren
January 18, 2011
I have many memories of penny candys and fistsfulls of change! So much patience with kids and their indecision... You were a very nice lady who will truly be missed.
Candy Bowman
January 17, 2011
Your beautiful smile and heartfelt laughter will live on in our hearts forever, Miss you Mom.
Love, Julie
Julie Moltke
January 17, 2011
Showing 1 - 8 of 8 results
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read moreWhat kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read moreWe'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreIf you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read moreLegacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreThey're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read more