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Colleen Barry Obituary
Colleen was born December 4, 1956 to Patrick Frances and June Elizabeth (Sinclair) Barry in North Vancouver, BC, Canada. She first came to Alaska in 1982. Colleen raised two very hard working boys, who she was very proud of. She became a nurse in 1994 and had worked at the Mat-Su Regional Medical Center emergency room and at the Meadow Lakes Elementary School. In 2007, Colleen was named the "March of Dimes" nurse of the year, which was a very proud day for her. She enjoyed working as a nurse, so she regretted having to retire due to her illness. Colleen enjoyed having friends and family gatherings, like her last party on September 11 at the Palmer Depot. She didn't want a funeral service or sad event as she didn't want anyone to know this was her last event.
Colleen is survived by many friends and her brother, Patrick "Paddy" Barry; two sisters, Lynne Peterson and Diane Barry; and her two sons, Thamen and Duncan Barry; two grandchildren, Monique Valentine and Juvenal Barry and her husband, Gary Sambo.
Arrangements were cared for by the Valley Funeral Home & Crematory.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Colleen Barry
Rachel
August 9, 2024
Still think of you. Such a bright light gone too soon. Love you! I tried to find Duncan, but haven´t been able to yet
Rachel Petchell
September 18, 2022
You visited me last night in my dream. Miss you dear friend.
BC
October 29, 2011
I am sorry for you loss. May the God of comfort who strengthens us in our trials and hardships sustain you at this most difficult time.
2 Cor 1:3,4
Jan Ihrig
October 26, 2011
I had the honor of working beside Colleen at Valley Hospital. Her spirit of positiveness and energy of giving went out to every soul she met. She truly made my time around her a pleasure. She made me want to be a better person.
Wherever that red hair is flowing in heaven I am sure the surroundings are peaceful but lively, loving and caring, and always looking out for those she left behind. She always spoke lovingly of her family. Know that you are in my prayers.
Carolyn McClintock
October 25, 2011
It was with a profound sadness that I read of Coleen's passing. I worked at the Indian Health Service hospital in Barrow when Coleen was a nurse there. She was an outstanding caregiver, always had a smile for everyone, and was a beloved member of the staff. She will be truly missed by so many of us. My heart goes out to her family and friends.
marty stephan
October 25, 2011
My sincere Condolences---To Gary and family.,I've worked with my dear friend Colleen for a few years at ANMC and she will be dearly missed. She gave me a picture of her and Gary by a beautiful ol Car and She will be fondly remembered ALWAYS!! I regret not taking the time to see her before I left but told Garys sis to give her a big hello and hug and I'm sure she did. BUT--she always had a beautiful smile and always good words to say. God Bless you and your family Gary!! From Marty Stephan (ol co worker at ANMC) Ramah,.NM
October 24, 2011
my condolences to your family may the god of comfort be with you during this time of grief- psalms 46:1
Michael Ann Zweifel
October 23, 2011
My condolences to you Gary, and the rest of the family. Colleen was a special lady and I'm so grateful to have spent time with her, exchanging ideas and our fascinating conversations. She was amazing and I smile when I think of her.
Gary
October 23, 2011
Hey Khaun
I still look for you, you made me so happy by just the way you look at me, with so much love. Even in our last days you still made me happy. I need you still.
Ellen Betts
October 23, 2011
I light this candle in remembrance of a soul who brought light into this world. It was good to "walk" part of this experience of life with Colleen. You made me a more rounded person and nurse. Thank you for your encouragement and smile. God bless Colleen's soul and all who loved her.
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