Barbara Dee Bukovac

Barbara Dee Bukovac, age 88 passed away peacefully at her home in Wasilla, Alaska on Friday, May 24, 2019. She was born April 6, 1931 in Pocatello, Idaho, to the late Catherine and Reuel McFarland. She was the only child to this union. She was the mother of Jimmie Benich (Phyllis) of Anchorage, Alaska and Dixie Chapman (Cleon) of Blackfoot, Idaho. Barbara has several grandchildren and great grandchildren. Barbara had a rough start in life and suffered for many years with Rheumatic Fever., although it didn't slow her down. She learned ballet at a very young age and developed a love for music. As she graduated from high school in Denver, Colorado, she was offered a music scholarship at the Julliard School of Music for her advanced musical achievements on the French Horn and String Bass. She turned it down however to marry her first husband, Kenneth and start their family. She taught accordion and piano lessons for years to help supplement the family income. She and Kenneth were divorced in 1969 and she later married Scott who preceded her in death. Her music accomplishments continued for decades in playing the piano and organ at church meetings for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, where she was a member. She lived a full life with a special love for animals and the outdoors. Barbara appreciated all of Heavenly Fathers creations and had an understanding of being a child of God.