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Cedar Rapids, Iowa 52401
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Barbara Risk
BARBARA RISK
Cedar Rapids
Barbara Ann Risk, 86, passed away in the early morning of Saturday, Jan. 10, 2015, following a 10-year battle with Alzheimer's disease.
She was born in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, to Mike and Celia Risk.
She is survived by her brother, Thomas Risk (Melanie); and her sister, Janet Peterson (Kenneth).
The loves in Barbara's life were God, church and family. Barbara was always deeply involved in many activities of the Saint George Antiochian Orthodox Church parishes in both Cedar Rapids and Phoenix. Barbara was also very active in Eastern Star for many years.
Barbara was diagnosed with Alzheimer's in 2004 and entered Barton House in December of the same year, where she lived until her passing. The wonderful and caring staff at Barton House immediately became part of her family. She spread constant joy throughout the home which was felt by other residents and their families and by the entire staff. Her smile and laughter became infectious to everyone around her. She loved to interact with children who often visited Barton House from local schools and churches as a community project. Everyone would agree that Barbara became the heart and soul of Barton House.
Barbara worked at Garrett AiResearch for
35 years
until her retirement. Ballroom dancing then became Barbara's passion for several years and she occasionally entered into some national dance competitions. Her love of dance carried through to the years she lived at Barton House. She would dance whenever the opportunity would present itself and everyone loved to watch her.
Barbara will be greatly missed by all who knew her.
A memorial service to honor Barbara's life will be held Wednesday, Jan. 14, at St. George Antiochian Orthodox Church, 4530 E. Gold Dust Ave., Phoenix, AZ 85028. There will be a visitation at 10 a.m. with a funeral service at 11 a.m, followed immediately by a celebration of life with luncheon.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her honor to Banner Hospice, 275 E. Germann Rd. #110, Gilbert, AZ 85297; or to St. George Antiochian Orthodox Church.
Arrangements entrusted to Whitney & Murphy Funeral Home.
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