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Barbara Sullivan Obituary
Barb was born June 20, 1953, in Kewanee, the daughter of John F. and Donna (Coggins) Sullivan. She graduated from Western High School, Buda in 1971 and then from Northwestern University, Evanston. Barb also received her master's degree from University of Illinois at Springfield.
Barb started her career in the Milwaukee VA Hospital, and later worked for many years in Springfield, Illinois. During her tenure in Springfield she served as President of the Illinois Physical Therapy Association, and held other leadership positions in the organization, as well.
In 2012, Barb accepted a position with Heartland Health Care in Galesburg, and moved to Oak Run. Closer to family and the lake she loved, Barb enjoyed many wonderful days in the sun with family, friends, and her dogs - Josie and Bear.
Barb had a very strong faith and often shared how blessed she felt with her life. She loved her close-knit Irish family dearly, and was greatly loved by them in return. The unconditional love and support she gave to all of her family and friends will be greatly missed.
Barb is survived by four sisters, Connie (Dave) Hahne, Sheffield, Linda (Duane) Rakestraw, Geneseo, Diane Sullivan, Downers Grove, and Jennifer Sullivan, Placitas, New Mexico; a brother, Patrick (Eileen) Sullivan, Kewanee; nieces and nephews, Katie (Brett) Johnson, Abby (Jason) Brokaw, Ted Hahne, Melissa (Christian) Jackson, Cassandra (Matthew) Douglas, Ty (Melissa) Rakestraw, and Dylan Rakestraw. Also surviving are four great-nieces and nephews, Coggin Johnson, Ellie Jackson, Sully Jackson, and Kennedy Rakestraw; and an aunt, Fran Larson, Sheffield. She was preceded in death by her parents and a brother, Thomas.
Condolences may be expressed by visiting Barb's obituary at www.stackhousemoore.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Barbara Sullivan
Kim Kavish
June 11, 2015
I used to work with Barb at MMC many years ago. She was a great leader and full of life. I am sorry for your loss.
keith rechner
June 8, 2015
My heartfelt condolences for your loss. Barb had an infectious laugh and was all about her family.
Tedd Ward Jr.
June 6, 2015
Barb was my physical therapist at Memorial Medical Center after I had my back broken in a car accident. She worked with me daily to keep what I could moving. I'll never forget her saying, "No pain, no gain," as I strained to exercise. But she stayed with me and we became close acquaintances. We always seemed to run into one another somewhere. I will miss that very much. My best wishes and deep condolences to her family.
Sue Ellen Billington
June 4, 2015
Barb was my boss the many years she was at Visiting Nurses. She was a dynamic leader and a very caring person. I am honored to have known her. She often spoke of her loving family. I was saddened to hear of her passing. Peace and Blessings, Barb.
June 4, 2015
Barb was an amazing person! She was very professional and kind and did a wonderful job as head of Therapy at Heartland. She did a miraculous job of working with my Mother. But beyond that, she was a fun and interesting person to be around and I will never forget her!
Karol & Rick Young
June 4, 2015
Our condolences to Barb's family. Rick & I both worked with Barb in Springfield. She was a great co-worker, boss and a friend. Rest in Peace Barb.
June 3, 2015
I worked with Barb at Memorial Medical Center in Spfld,il.She was an outstanding therapist and administrator and always ready to listen.But more than that she was a fun person and I have some wonderful memories.Peace,Maggie Cullen
Stacey Morrison
June 3, 2015
I will miss your infectious giggle Barb loved working with you we will meet again rest in peace love you Stacey Morrison Heartland co-worker xo
Joan Lewis
June 3, 2015
Rest in Peace Barb
June 3, 2015
The Entire Sullivan Family,
So sorry to hear of Barb's passing.
Our thoughts and prayers go out to you and all your loved ones.
Debbie Weber, Sandy VanderMeersch and Jerry Kopp
Bitsy Knepler
June 3, 2015
Barb was such a caring, energetic woman. Always enjoyed her company. My sincere condolences to Barb's family.
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