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Barbara Warren Obituary
Warren, of San Diego, died Tuesday at Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital when her family told doctors to take her off a ventilator, her twin sister Angelika Drake told the San Diego Union-Tribune.
Warren crashed her bike on a downhill road about halfway through the 34-mile cycling section of the race on Saturday, race director Joe Coito said.
Warren was paralyzed from the neck down and was breathing with the aid of the ventilator. Drake said her sister told the family by blinking and nodding that she wanted to die.
"I talked to her and she nodded over and over and over again. She wanted to leave," Drake said. "No athlete would like to have a life with only their eyes talking."
Warren's two daughters and her husband Tom were also with her at the hospital when she died.
Warren won her age group in the 2003 Ironman Triathlon World Championship in Hawaii. She competed in the race, the world's top triathlon, 13 times and finished in the top five in her age group eight times.
The two sisters alternated riding bikes in the Race Across America, covering 2,983 miles in less than 10 days.
Warren also competed in a seven-day race across the Sahara Desert, and finished a triple Ironman in France that included a 7.2-mile swim, 336-mile bike ride and 78.6-mile run.
Warren was well-loved among younger triathletes.
Michellie Jones, who won a triathlon silver medal in the 2000 Olympics and won the 2006 Ironman World Title, was also a twin who remembered her fondly.
"She always asked about my sister," Jones said. "She understood the bond."
Warren's twin said she lay next to her sister as she died.
"My heart and my soul are gone," Drake said. "She was everything in my life."
59 Entries
Greta Bendimez
March 30, 2017
I always miss you and and I cry when I think of you. I loved you very much still and when I think of you it makes me stronger!
Love,
Greta
February 26, 2014
I miss you...
Armando Alvarez
September 14, 2008
I cannot think of Barbara without thinking of Angelika and how both of them helped change my life literally and spiritually. Barbara was also a great mother to our two daughters, Ingrid and Katrin. In these days of grief, my deepest condolences to Tom.
How you can show support
We love you Barbara, Melanie, Clyde, Clarence Armando, and Deloris Celia, God Bless you
Melanie Home Gun
September 14, 2008
Barbara was married to my Dad and was my step mother, until they both remarried. Ingrid and Katrin are my half sisters, but I just call them my sisters. I felt very close to Barbara and Angelika most of my life, even though I haven't seen them in years. Recently I received photos from Katrin of her baby and Barbara was in the photo. I was so excited to hear from them. So happy for them. I kept meaning to write or call or email, and a voice inside of me kept telling me to get ahold of Barbara. I really wanted to say hi and let her know how I was and how happy I was for her and everyone. The next thing I knew my father called me devastated with the terrible news. I cannot describe how I felt, so sad and mainly so worried about Katrin, Ingrid and Angelika. My heart goes out to you three and to my Dad. I never met Tom, but my heart goes out to him as well. I can't imagine how you all must feel and I send you my deepest condolences. Barbara was a great person and someone who believed in life. I learned a lot from Barbara and she influenced me so much. Her and my father were great support for me and I would do the things in my heart I longed to do because of them, like go to art school, travel, graduate from college, get a Masters degree, get married, have a family, have a life...they always wanted the best for us and I'll never forget Barbara for the spirit she had in all things and how she supported me in my life. I will truly miss her and I pray Katrin, Ingrid, Angelika, Tom and my Dad are okay. I know Barbara would want you all to be happy and enjoy this life as she did. She was a winner and I know her daughters are too. I love you all and God Bless you all so much, Love Melanie (Alvarez Home Gun)
Greta Bendimez
September 12, 2008
I remember being a little girl and wanted to be just like my mom. My mother's fondness memories from Europe and Mexico were with Barbara when they modeled and looked like sisters. Words can't describe what she ment to me.
David Guerrero
September 12, 2008
I'm so terrybly sorry for your losse,I meet Barbara in mexico city zona rosa back when she owned a model scholl, she was a wonderfull person and caind to me and others. she has finish her labor on this plan I'm very shure that she is with Good, and very happy , witrh my deepest condolences.
Norm, and Prede Roth
Norm, and Prede Roth
September 10, 2008
We were heartbroken to hear of the tragic news, and loss of our good friend Barbara. Our condolences to the family, and friends that loved her.
" Barbara, you will never know how much your life has impacted so many of us, family, and friends. You certainly have helped structure, and helped those you cared about. Your incredible life has inspired us and your loved ones as you shared your love, joy, deep spirituality, and giving us such a wonderful role model to admire you forever.We have fond memories of our children growing up together. It was always the three girls, Katrin, Amanda, and Trish. They were inseparable, and you gave them such love, and kindness that they will take with them always. You know, when they say everyone is here on earth for a purpose, or reason, or to make a difference in this world, well you certainly gave your friends, and loved ones those things and reasons to love life, and make a difference in our own life. You cared about everyone, and helped everyone through their lives, and difficulties. That will always be appreciated, and remembered by all who knew you. We will always love you. You will be in our hearts always. Our prayers are with you, and your family a this time. We will always celebrate your life. Thank you for being there for all of us. God Bless you. Your friends"
Trish Fogle (formerly Fresquez)
September 9, 2008
When I heard the news of Barbara's passing, my heart broke. It has been well over ten years since I've seen or talked to Barbara, but I could never forget how vibrant, warm and friendly she was. Being that I was close friends with her daughter Katrin when we were kids, I spent a lot of time in their home, and I will always remember how generous Barbara was and how she treated me like family. I even remember that when I would sleep over there she'd kiss me goodnight and say she loved me too! ;) Barbara was always smiling and cheerful and it always made me want to smile and be cheerful too. Ingrid and Katrin are incredibly blessed to have had such a loving and wonderful mother! My deepest condolences to all of Barbara's family..
Amanda Van Buren
September 9, 2008
Barbara--Although I haven't seen you since I was 10 years old you are someone who is impossible to forget. You were an incredible light of energy, love, warmth, and compassion. You were a Super Mom, Super Human, Super Being. Katrin and Ingrid were so lucky to have you. You are someone who I can honestly say lived life to the fullest. All of my love and prayers to your family--Katrin, Ingrid, Angelica, and their families. I know you will be watching over them.
Tiffany Hardcastle
September 9, 2008
My heart broke when I heard the news... Even thou it's been probably 20 years since I've seen the family, I remember Barbara's smile and her warmth like it was yesterday. The world just won't be the same without her in it... My heart, thoughts and prayers are with all of you. Sincerely, Tiffany Hardcastle
Kathy Paul (Van Buren)
September 9, 2008
I am heartbroken at the news of my beautiful friend going away-she always seemed so incredibly present in everything she did. Barbara was my hero, actually. Even though we are not far apart in years, she was everything I thought a woman, or indeed any human, should be: gorgeous, talented, caring, compassionate, kind-not to mention the running! One day she finally talked me into running with her (I had been making excuses-I was NOWHERE near her level and was quite embarrassed to even try)-Well, we ran and ran and... I just felt like apologizing for slowing her down and she just kept telling me how great I was- She made me feel I was great, that I was her peer and it was the best feeling.
Barbara gave me some advice about 20 years ago and I still use it to gauge and make decisions in my life. She said, "Sometimes God speaks in a very soft voice." We don't need to be hit over the head, the way is evident if we just look.
Thank you, Barbara, for being my friend, thank you for loving Amanda and thank you for everything you are.
Florian Mueller
September 7, 2008
Liebe Geli, Ingrid Katrin und Familien,
das einzig Wichtige im Leben sind Spuren von Liebe, die wir hinterlassen,
wenn wir ungefragt weggehen und Abschied nehmen müssen.
Albert Schweitzer (1875-1965)
Euer
Florian
im September 2008
Sandy Stone McGrath
September 6, 2008
I have known Barbara since the 1970's in Mexico City and we have been in touch on and off through the years. Barbara was always kind to me . She was a ray of light where ever she went and I appreciated her as a wonderful person and friend. To Anjelika and the rest of her dear family, please find comfort in knowing , you will see her again one day. God Bless you all, Sandy Stone McGrath
Shannon Stark
September 6, 2008
I met Barbara through my dear friend Katrin, many years ago. As everyone was, I was always impressed by the incredible triumph that was her life. It seemed as if Barbara knew she had a shorter time on this earth and wanted to pack in as much amazement as possible. Barbara became a closer friend and confidant in the last couple of years. She counseled me through a very difficult time in my life with the grace and ease that only Barbara could exude. I remember last year when I was struggling with a life question... a question of whether or not I should take a risk in my life. Of course, Barbara emphatically resounded "yes!" She insisted that I could not let a day go by where I wasn't living my life to the fullest. I read Barbara's books and was inspired to "do what (I) didn't want to do" per her advice. What an incredible woman.
When I heard of Barbara's passing, I was devastated. I must admit that a little part of me felt selfish... there was so much more that I had to learn from her... how could she leave before we were all ready to go? I can only imagine the pain her family and friends must feel because I know that I have felt a very deep despair for her loss. I can't help but reflect, though, on how great God's love is. If my dear friend Katrin, hadn't gotten pregnant with her beautiful baby girl, then she might not have been able to spend those last precious months with her mother. And I know that one of Barbara's greatest joys was witnessing the birth of her youngest daughter's first child.
Barbara: Rest in peace. I cannot wait to see you there at the pearly gates for I know that is where you are waiting for all of us.
To my dearest Katrin and Ingrid: I know that you were the light of your mother's eye and that she was so proud that you both chose to become amazing mothers. I see so much of Barbara in each of you. She lives on through your spirit and your light and that of her beautiful grandbabies.
Barbara- you will be greatly missed.
Samba Mantecon
September 6, 2008
I have just received notice of Barbara's passing. I am so saddened and in shock. Barbara was so very special to me and even though I haven't seen her in years, we kept in touch and I just knew she loved me as much as I loved her. Angelika, I can't even imagine how you must feel. You two were inseperable in life, in spirit and in heart. I can remember my son, Chris when he was little meeting Barbara for the first time at our home in Mexico City, anxiously pulling at my clothes, saying "Mama, mama, there are two Angelikas!" Stay strong my friend and please know that I am here for you anytime. I am so sorry I wasn't able to meet up with her again but she will always be a piece of my heart for she inspired me so much and I will cherish the times we did spend together. Ingrid and Katrin, I know you may not remember me but I knew you as young girls, Ingrid played with my son Chris in Mexico City and we met Katrin when we came to visit you in Brownsville. I knew how much your Mother loved you for every time we spoke, she would beam the energy of love and excitement over the phone when she told me of your lives and your children. Family was everything to her and she was so proud to be a Mother. Tom, although I never met you, I know you must feel a terrible loss for Barbara finally met her lifelong friend and companion when she met you. My heart breaks for you but knowing Barbara, she will be by your side forever. Please know that you are all in my heart and prayers and the shining light of Barbara will live forever in heaven. God bless you all.
Katrin and Katarina my moms joy
September 5, 2008
My mom
September 5, 2008
With Love Gwyn, William and Riley
Ingrid Qua
September 5, 2008
Thank you to all!!! It is such a blessing to read these heart felt condolences for our family and my mom. I can not put into words what these past weeks have felt like after her very unexpected death. But I can tell you the most beautifull gift we as a family where given was to be able to say goodbye. The pain of seeing her laying paralysed in the hospital bed fully aware of her situation and what strugles would lie ahead there was a point where I believed she would want to fight to live to at least be able to see her children and her greatest joy her grandchildren Gwyn 6, William 5, Riley 2, and Katarina 2 months grow and live. But then there was a point when it became clear that she couldnt just sit and watch. I was finnally able to accept her decision to go when I asked her "you dont want to be just a bystander do you" and she replied yes in total calmness with her eyes. She knew God was waiting for her and with her twin sister laying at her side and myself and my sister katrin on her otherside she looked up at us one last time and smiled before she went into an infinit sleep. I thank God for that gift that last smile and the ability to say keep those gates open for us when we meet again. She had the strength to let go and believe. It is hard to imagine oneself in that position and having such strong faith in god that one would choose death. But she did. Its still hard to imagine her gone, but hearing from so many how she inspired them during her life I hope she too can inspire many through her death. I misse you momi
Joi Van Vranken
September 4, 2008
I only knew of you and had been around Angelika just once however, my heart was broken when I heard of the horrific news. I have always admired you both. You enter my thoughts often and I pray you are in peace. Life is short and maybe we can meet in Heaven someday. What an awesome duo you two were and through spirit always will be. Love from down here my dear.
Philip & Linda Lotze
September 4, 2008
Tom, Katrin, Angelika, Ingrid and family: Our condolences and prayers, and the love from our hearts, are covering each of you during this time of mourning.
<:))))><
2 Cor 1:2-5
Karyn Simmonds
September 2, 2008
For my sister in Christ, Barbara, you have gone home to the Lord who welcomes you with open arms. You will forever live in my heart and mind as a role model human using all your God given talents to enjoy this life, lead others and to worship the God who made you.
My condolences to Barbara's family. I pray for you to find comfort in each other and in knowing Barbara lived life to the fullest and though her body is no longer here, her spirit is eternal in each of us.
I'm thankful for having the opportunity to have met her and run a few times with her. Even though the moments were few, her light shined bright.
May God bless and be with all of you.
alfredo Elias Calles
September 2, 2008
Angelika: Que gran pena; recibe mi mas sincero pesame. Las Angely,siempre ocuparon un espacio especial en nuestras vivencias.
Barbara: Buen viaje amiga, te recordamos con afecto.
Alfredo E. Calles
Pixie Hopkin
September 1, 2008
Angelika
We who started our adventurous lives with you and Barbara are just stunned by the news of this loss. Over the years you have been as one....I know what this means ...the most incredible part is that she left us with the same courage that she did everything else... definitly one of the unforgettable people in my life... my heartfelt sympathy to the Warren family, as to you too
Pixie
Melissa Merson
September 1, 2008
My thoughts and prayers are with the Warren family and Barbara's sister at this very sad time. The entire triathlon community mourns her tragic loss.
Daniels Family
September 1, 2008
Our deepest condolences to all who loved Barbara. May you all find comfort in your precious memories and solace in "the Father of tender mercies and the God of all comfort." (2 Cor 1:3,4)
PATTY SCHOEN-JONES
August 31, 2008
DEAR FRIENDS & FAMILY,
HOW BLESSED YOU WERE TO KNOW SUCH A WONDERFUL WOMAN. MAY OUR DEAR LORD COMFORT YOU AT THIS TIME. THERE IS ANOTHER BRIGHT SHINING STAR IN THE EVENING SKY!
August 31, 2008
Now you may rest in peace!
Humubly submitted
Angelika L.
August 31, 2008
Dearest Angelika,
There are no words. I know how much your sister means to you and the very strong bond you share.I am so, so very sorry........ May God give you the strength to carry on.
With deepest sympathy,
Angelika L.
annie
August 31, 2008
Crossing the Bar
Sunset and evening star,
And one clear call for me!
And may there be no moaning of the bar,
When I put out to sea,
But such a tide as moving seems asleep,
Too full for sound and foam,
When that which drew from out the boundless deep
Turns again home.
Twilight and evening bell,
And after that the dark!
And may there be no sadness of farewell,
When I embark;
For tho' from out our bourne of Time and Place
The flood may bear me far,
I hope to see my Pilot face to face
When I have crost the bar.
By Alfred, Lord Tennyson
The Poetry Foundation
Rosie
August 31, 2008
How sad to read this story. MY condolences to her loved ones
lewis mccorvey
August 31, 2008
in 1987 i lost my friend joe grievers in a bike crash before his race in ironman new zealand,to lose a twin sister,my heart goes out, all of us who have raced,and lost a friend, or family member feel this pain,she is a great place,please know that, Lew
Anonymous
August 31, 2008
So brave, and talented! I admire the
wonderful, contribution to being
fruitful, and matured. Forever young are you!
God strengthen her family, and friends!
Amen!
D.L.
August 31, 2008
Dear Family,
Though I am unfamiliar with the swimming sport, I am deeply impressed by the information contained on Barbara, especially her closeness with her sister. My grandmother was also a twin. Often people could not tell them apart; they looked alike and were also very near and dear to each other.
My condolences to the family on Barbara's tragic accident. Though a very difficult decision to make, it showed love and consideration on your part to remove the breathing device. May your hearts be comforted in knowing that Barbara now rests in peace, free from suffering.
Jehovah, the Father of tender mercies, and the God of all comfort, shares your sorrow at this time. He will help you now and in the days to come to endure your circumstances.
My prayers continue with your family.
(Isaiah 25:8 and Isaiah 35:5, 6).
Patricia De Llano
August 30, 2008
We will remember Barbara with love and joy forever. Our deepest sympathies to her family.
Patricia De Llano and Family.
Debbie Iammarino
August 30, 2008
I did not know of this wonderful person, this tremendous athlete.. but, I am very, very sorry to hear of her tragic passing and the situation which lead to it.. how heartbreaking for her family.
May she always rest in peace and to her loved ones, especially her sister, my heart reaches out to you the most, ....you see, almost three years ago I had to make the decision to remove life support from my wonderful brother who then later died in my arms.
I know your pain, God bless you.
Sincerly,
Debbie Iammarino
CAPT Craig Ryniewicz USN
August 30, 2008
I am shocked and saddened to hear of Barbara's passing. I remember the twins from the early 90's, running Master's Track together with them at UCSD. The sisters were always inseparable, running laps together. I will always remember doing the San Diego Marathon (now Carlsbad Marathon) back in 1991, when one of the twins passed me well into the race when I "hit the wall." She gave me words of encouragement, even though she was doing the marathon as a long training run since she was fighting a cold. Forever rest in peace. My sympathy and condolences to the family, especially Angelika on your loss.
Diane Malone
August 30, 2008
While I honestly have never heard of Barbara and her amazing athletic career,as well as her photography, I am deeply moved by her death. Her accident was so tragic-and the painful and loving decision that her family made to give her her peace is truly LOVE in the most selfless of acts. I am sure you will miss her forever and she is always with you-Believe that!
with sincere sympathy.
Marvin Atwood
August 30, 2008
Tom & Family
I never had the opportunity to meet Barbara personally, but my wife Pam and I have like you and Barbara been involved in endurance sports together since the '80's with Pam competing in the Hawaii Ironman several times and teaming together in Race Across America and other events. Earlier this year I made an entry in another guest book for Jimi Sellars whose wife Nancy was killed by a drunk driver a week after this year's RAAM. I can't even begin to be able to envision what you and your family are going through as I try to contemplate not having Pam at my side in these events and as we continue to grow older together. Pam and I were struck by an inattentive driver while out on a recovery ride a week after RAAM 2006 and it again made us realize how fragile life is and that what we do as a sport does indeed put us at risk. At the same time, we also reflected on how much these events have meant to us through the years and how much fuller our lives have been as a result of being a source of support for each other through all the training and racing together. You have our most heart-felt condolences on your loss, but I hope through the coming days and years you will be able to look back on all the joy you two shared and that this will give you peace
Beverly Bergman
August 30, 2008
Yes, Barbara Warren was an extraordinary human being. She gave me the most beautiful gift a person could give. She taught me to believe in myself whenever I faltered. She showed me that I was okay exactly as I was, faults and all. I credit her with my decision to become a copy writer for coaches after I had the absolute pleasure of editing her four books. I will always be grateful for my good fortune to know Barbara's loving kindness. She radiated warmth, dedication, exuberance, grace, humility ... the list goes on and on. I will miss her as surely as she will live on in my heart every day, she is forever a part of me. Thank you to those who are writing about her. My heart goes out to Angelika, Tom, Ingrid, Katrin and family.
Jackie Childress
August 29, 2008
My deepest and sincerest condolences. While I never knew her nor any of you, I offer my sympathies. May you find comfort in one another.
Ann Morgan
August 29, 2008
I am very sorry to hear of your passing my condolence goes out to you and your family.
Ellen Shockro
August 29, 2008
I remember Barbara and her sister well from my triathlon years in the 80's, including Hawaii. I am so saddened by this news. I hope she is in a wonderful place, with no pain and happy memories. My condolences to all who loved her.
Lisa A
August 29, 2008
My thoughts and prayers go out to the family. May God bring peace to you all in this time of need.
Steve Micke
August 29, 2008
She was a wonderful person, as is her sister. I thank her family for giving her to us. She was an inspiration not only to those of her generation but to all young girls and women everywhere.
My love and prayers go out to all of you in Barbaras family and to the friends she held so dear.
Richard Harris
August 29, 2008
I honestly have never heard of Barbara, as I am not much into the sport. I did read her story online and wish for nothing but happiness for her family and loved ones. I too am a twin and would not know what to do if I lost my brother. God bless you folks.
Irene c morrison
August 29, 2008
she is in gods hands may god help you in your sad time she was i nice lady
Nikki Brauer
August 29, 2008
Angelika,
Mein tiefempfundenste Beileid fur deine Familie. Nikki
Patti H.
August 29, 2008
My deepest sympathy. I so admire older people who are vibrant, athletic, and full of life. They are an inspiration to me as I approach 50 years of age. May Barbara's story and life be an inspiration to all of us. Godspeed. My prayers are with you
Jean Dowdy
August 29, 2008
To the family members of Barbara Warren you have my deepest sympathy. Barbara was such a vibrant person. She loved life. And was very much loved by her family, friends and associates. I can imagine the pain you are going through. Being a twin myself, I can understand her sister's emotional void, because as twins, we have an attachment unlike any other. You are in my prayers. I look forward to a time when we will no longer suffer in death.
Marty Martin
August 29, 2008
You will always live in our hearts and prayers.
Mary
August 29, 2008
In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.
William Cataquet
August 29, 2008
Rest in peace and may your family find the strength and love they need during this time...
You were one twin of a kind !
JM P
August 29, 2008
What a legacy this brave woman has left behind. An inspiration to all!
D. ZIMMERMAN
August 29, 2008
REST IN PEACE BARBARA WARREN
Jeff Kinkade
August 29, 2008
I was so sorry to hear of your loss. The thoughts of many are with you at this time of sorrow.
Stacy L. Smith
August 29, 2008
To Barbara Warren's Family,
So sorry to hear about the death of your loved one. I know what it is like to lose someone you love, I lost my sister 4 years ago and it still hurts. You and your family are in my prayers. Pray to God only He can heal your pain. Take care of each other,
Stacy L. Smith
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