Barbara Bandy

Barbara moved "upstairs" on Oct. 10, 2020, exchanging her earthly body for a pain-free one. Barbara was born in L.A., Calif., on April 22, 1933, to Elmer and Thelma (Doerr) Brown. One of her favorite childhood memories was taking her banty chicken for bicycle rides around the neighborhood. She was a Girl Scout and volunteered at summer camp during high school. Barbara graduated from college with a certificate in dental assisting and an associate degree in early childhood education. She moved many times in her lifetime, living in California, Oregon, Illinois, Florida, Washington, and finally Alaska, where she put down roots with her family. There were many adventures along the way: camping, hiking, fishing, hunting, riding motorcycles and boating. Barbara worked in retail, as a dental assistant and for a few years as a bar/restaurant co-owner in Delta Junction, Alaska. She volunteered as a Bluebird/Campfire Leader, PTA, Welcome Wagon, Elementary School Aide and Senior Companion. She was very interested in crafting and decorating her different homes along the way for the seasons. Barbara was always available for the next road trip, picnic, Saturday garage sales and loved afternoon tea with cookies. She was preceded upstairs by her parents, Elmer and Thelma Brown; and sisters, Eleaner Thumser, Marilyn Lavoie and Dorothy Bubelis. Deeply missed by daughters, Carol Hansen, Linda (John) Howe, Donna Cramer; stepchildren, Bruce Bandy (Tracy), Marilyn Darilek (Bob) and Carolyn Petek and families; and also fondly remembered by her grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews. Thanks to Travis Souhrada/Genacta Home Care, The "Caring Angels" at Maple Springs Senior Living/Wasilla and ANCORA Hospice. Arrangements by Cremation Society of Alaska. Due to COVID-19 pandemic, a memorial will be held in summer 2021.