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BARBARA JOANNE SHANNON PARKER
October 30, 1929 ~ February 14, 2011
Barbara Joanne Shannon Parker was born October 30th, 1929 to Charles and Emma (Lindroos) Shannon in Larson, Idaho and passed into the hands of the Lord on February 14th, 2011. Barbara was preceded in death by her husband, Paul, in 1998 and son, Alan, in 2009. Barbara spent her final moments surrounded by her children Linda, Keith, Danny, Patty, John, Peter, and Susan. She is also survived by her sister, Margaret Heuke of Arizona.
Barbara grew up on the Puget Sound in Bremerton, Washington. Shortly after World War II she moved to Clark County to enter Providence Nursing Academy with the hope of becoming an airline stewardess. After meeting and marrying Paul Parker in 1951, Barbara instead devoted her life to the care of others and her family as an RN at St. Joseph's Hospital, where she worked until 1990.
A compassionate and feisty woman, Barbara was always ready with a story to share, or help for an animal in need. Along with her love of animals Barbara had a great love of music which she shared to the delight of everyone around through her talented and spirited organ and piano playing.
The world will have a little less music without Barbara, and she will be greatly missed by her children, many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, friends, and neighbors.
One of her favorite poems was:
May the road rise up to meet you
May the wind be always be at your back
May the sun shine warm upon your face
May rain fall soft upon your field
And until we meet again
May God hold you in the palm of his hand.
There will be a Rosary on Thursday, February 17th at 6:30 at St. Joseph's Catholic Church. Funeral Mass will be held at 10:00 on Friday, February 18th at the same location.
Please sign the Guest Book at www.columbian.com/obits.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
I worked with Barb on the night shift at St. Joseph's hospital while a CNA and going to nursing school. She always inspired and encouraged. She found the time to listen in a very busy ER. I learned the value of humor and laughter to ease tension and pain in difficult situations. So sorry for your tremendous loss. She and her husband Paul left a legacy of love. God bless and keep you all.
Jane Gilronan
March 6, 2011
I HAD THE PLEASURE OF WORKING WITH BARB IN THE ER'S AT THEN VANCOUVER MEMORIAL AND ST. JOS..SHE WAS VERY PROFESSIONAL AND PERSONABLE WITH ALL. SHE HAD A DRY WIT THAT WAS A NICE BREAK IN THE ER AMBIENCE, THAT WAS PRESENT ON SOME PRETTY CRAZY WEEK-END NITES. I TRUST SHE IS IN PEACE NOW, RE-UNITED WITH HER MAKER,AND HER DECEASED HUSBAND, SON, AND OTHER FAMILY MEMBERS AND FRIENDS. WHEN MY MOTHER DIED, A PRIEST SAID TO ME "NOW YOUR MOM CAN MINISTER TO, AND LOVE HER FAMILY FROM HER NEW HEAVENLY HOME". MAY YOU BE COMFORTED IN GRIEVING YOUR TEMPORARY LOSS. DARRELL MILLER, MD
February 20, 2011
Peace be with you and your loved ones
KWH
February 18, 2011
Thank you for always being there for me Grandma. You were always a positive and loving influence on my life.
Chris Lovely
February 17, 2011
When I entered St Joseph School of Nursing Barbara was a senior. I remember her as a fun, smiling person and always entertaining us on the piano. And she was always willing to help the new students. My prayers and sympathy to her family. Betty Kahlsdorf Wassick
February 17, 2011
I remember a house full of animals and children, all of which Mrs. Parker worked tirelessly to support and nurture. She had great love for all of her children and went out of her way to provide for their material and emotional needs. She was a no-nonsense survivor who kept going, regardless of circumstances and obstacles. May she have peace now.
Susan Wilkinson
February 17, 2011
I was fortunate enough to have worked with Barb when I was a paramedic. I was always glad to see she was on duty because she cared so much about our patients.
Rest well, Barb.
Joel Ramey
February 17, 2011
Dear Grandma,
I miss you a lot. I am so thankful that I was able to see you one last time. You were a wonderful grandma. I will miss going to Mass with you and our coffee chats. You always gave a lot of love, advice, and support. Thank you for being a wonderful grandma. Peace be with you. I love you.
Alison Lovell
February 17, 2011
I remember Barbara well, I worked with her at the hospital in Vancouver for 10 years. She was a great lady, and remembered with fond memories. I will be praying for the family.
Tom Magoon
February 17, 2011
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