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Barbara Western Obituary
Barbara Western, Mandan, died Sept. 19, 2007, in Bismarck, after a long struggle with Alzheimer's disease. Services will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 22, at United Church of Christ, 1200 Highland Acres Road, Bismarck.
Barb was born in Harvey on March 9, 1932, to Charles and Mildred Crank and was raised and educated in Garrison, graduating from Garrison High School in 1950. She attended North Dakota Agricultural College and graduated with a degree in home economics in 1954.
Barb married Wayne Western on June 19, 1955, and they made their home in Bismarck in 1956. Barb was a devoted and active member of the United Church of Christ in Bismarck, where she had served as church moderator and later as church secretary for 12 years. She also was an active member of several civic and community organizations in Bismarck and Mandan. She served in leadership positions in several organizations, including Thursday Music Club, the Fortnightly book club, PEO, United Church of Christ Salem Circle and the Bismarck Swim Team.
In retirement, Barb and Wayne spent winters in Hemet, Calif., where Barb was active in several organizations and with the Pilgrim Congregational Church.
Barb was a highly talented quilter and made dozens of beautiful quilts. She was especially talented in hardanger embroidery. She also enjoyed reading, walking and researching her family genealogy.
She is survived by her loving husband of 52 years, Wayne Western; her son and daughter-in-law, Jeff and Mindy Western, Fargo; her daughter and son-in-law, Jane and Brad Beers, Luverne, Minn.; and her son and daughter-in-law, Jon Western and Jenifer Urff, Northampton, Mass. She also is survived by five grandchildren, Chance and John Western, Fargo, Ryleigh Beers, Luverne, Minn., and Charley and Alex Western, Northampton; one step-grandchild, Amber (Beers) Rost, Madison, S.D.; and two step-great-grandchildren, Shayla and Raena Rost.
The family requests memorials be sent to the North Dakota Alzheimer's Association and the United Church of Christ Building Fund.
Go to http://www.bismarckfuneralhome.com to share memories and view the online guest book. (Bismarck Funeral Home)
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Barbara Western
6 Entries
Jean Weatherly
September 25, 2007
Wayne and Family:
Sorry to hear about Barb. She was a very talented lady. I am in SC visiting sister Joyce and husband. Our condolences to you all. We are Beryl's family and have many pictures at Sisco reunions of the "cousins". Know that she is now at peace.
Jean Ginsbach Weatherly,
Joyce Ginsbach Aafedt, Easley, SC
Nancy Ginsbach Wolf, Jamestown, ND
R.Lee Ginsbach, Aberdeen, SD
and families
Terri (Leupp) Wilhelm
September 24, 2007
I was sad to read of Barb's passing. I have so many fond memories of her and your family. She was a great Mom! We sure spent a lot of time together on all of those marathon swim meets. After reading the other notes from other swimmers-you know she made a difference in the lives of everyone who knew her. You are all in my prayers during this difficult time.
Jerry Elsbernd
September 21, 2007
Dear Wayne & Family - Our thoughts and prayers are with you. I have many fond memories of wonderful times and laughs with Barb and the family at the river. God Bless you as you say your goodbyes.
September 21, 2007
Wayne, Jeff, Jane & Jon,
I'm sorry to hear about Barb. She was a gentle soul. God bless you all in this difficult time.
Rick E.
Marsha Dahl
September 21, 2007
To the Western Family,
I was so sorry to hear about your loss. It's always difficult to lose a loved one but the memories help ease the pain. I remember my first babysitting job was with your family. Barb hired me to watch Jane & Jon. I also remember how much she loved to be involved in different organizations. Getting to know your family through competitive swimming was our families pleasure. Please know that I will be thinking of your family during these times and the days ahead.
Stuart Ivesdal
September 21, 2007
Wayne & Family,
Am so sad to hear about Barb. She was a great woman. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Dolores Western, Stuart, Berdene & Jacey Ivesdal
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